February home sales up slightly

(March 16, 2005) Last month's home sales were up slightly over one year ago. The 1,436 residential home sales were 2.2 percent higher than the 1,405 homes sold in February of 2004 according to the Columbus Board of REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service.

"That's the highest number of homes ever sold during the month of February," said Doug McCloud, 2005 President of the Columbus Board of REALTORS®. "So far, Central Ohio home sales are up about 1.6 percent for the year."

The average sales price jumped 6.6 percent from $159,581 last February to $170,177 last month. "From an investment perspective, housing here in Central Ohio continues to provide valuable appreciation," comments McCloud. "But with continued low rates, buyers can still afford the price of a home. It's the best of both worlds."