WARREN - Home sales in both Trumbull and Mahoning counties increased in October when compared to a year ago, according to numbers released Tuesday.
A total of 145 homes were sold in October in Trumbull County, compared to 143 sold in October 2011. Mahoning County saw a significant increase of more than 11 percent to 197 homes sold, compared to 177 sold this time last year, according to statistics released by the Youngstown Columbiana Association of Realtors, which also includes Trumbull County information.
Statewide, housing sales activity increased 23.1 percent in October, the 16th straight sales gain, according to statistics provided by the state's Multiple Listing Service.
"It's become increasingly evident that the Ohio housing market is making significant progress in its recovery from the economic downturn, achieving increased sales activity for 16th consecutive month and seeing a steady uptick in the average sales price," said Bob Miller, president of the Ohio Association of Realtors.
Home prices also increased during the period. The median selling price for a home in Trumbull County was $69,000, a significant increase from the $56,000 median price a year ago.
Mahoning median sale price also increased to $77,900 from $53,500.
Miller said Ohio Realtors also continue to have confidence about the future.
''Interest rates remain at historic lows, prices have begun to trend upward, inventories are declining, sellers are increasingly realistic in their pricing expectations and consumers understand that long-term, owning a home is a tremendous investment," he said.