Jobless claims plunged to the lowest level since 1973 this week, the biggest drop since April 2009. Labor market strength can pressure rates higher.

According to a recently released Fed report, the economy and inflation expanded at a modest-to-moderate pace from November to the end of 2017.

Inflation, which pressures interest rates to move higher, is not increasing across the U.S. consistently. West coast metro areas are showing higher inflation.

Although home builder confidence was down slightly in January, it’s still strong. Builders’ biggest concerns remain costs of material and labor shortages.

New housing starts fell more than expected in December. However, the moderation is likely to be temporary amid strong demand for housing.

Mortgage purchase applications jumped 4.1% last week, and volume rose 5.6% over last year. Speculation is that consumers fear rates may be increasing.

Next week’s potential market moving reports are:

Tuesday January 23rd – Richmond Fed Manufacturing Index

Wednesday January 24th – MBA Mortgage Applications, FHFA HPI, Existing Home Sales

Thursday January 25th – First Time Jobless Claims, New Home Sales

Friday January 26th – Durable Goods Orders, GDP

As your mortgage and real estate professional, I am happy to assist you with any information you may need regarding mortgage or real estate trends. I welcome the opportunity to serve you in any way I possibly can. Please feel free to reach me at (661) 505-4300.

Santa Clarita mortgages lender American Family Funding can help you fulfill your dream of home ownership. A highly rated Santa Clarita mortgages company, American Family Funding maintains a focus on community involvement and a commitment to giving back whenever possible. Friendly mortgage brokers make the first time home buyer experience an easy and stress-free experience — even with bad credit or a low down payment. The Santa Clarita home loan officers at American Family Funding also specialize in VA loans, reverse mortgages, refinancing and the STAR Loan Program.

American Family Funding

28368 Constellation Road
Suite 398
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 284-1150
[email protected]

As Santa Clarita’s only local radio station, KHTS mixes in a combination of news, traffic, sports, and features along with your favorite adult contemporary hits. Santa Clarita news and features are delivered throughout the day over our airwaves, on our website and through a variety of social media platforms. Our KHTS national award-winning daily news briefs are now read daily by 34,000+ residents. A vibrant member of the Santa Clarita community, the KHTS broadcast signal reaches all of the Santa Clarita Valley and parts of the high desert communities located in the Antelope Valley. The station streams its talk shows over the web, reaching a potentially worldwide audience. Follow @KHTSRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and sign up for KHTS email and text alerts today!