February 2009 home sales compared to February 2008 for West Chester and Liberty Township, Ohio
In February 2008 79 units were sold vs. 65 units in February 2009. This represents a decrease of 17.72%. That is quite a drop in closed sales when compared to the year ago period. Unit sales continue to be soft, with the overall economy and job security issues having a big impact on potential buyers. The 1st time homebuyers tax credit is influencing the activity in the under $225,000 market in a positive way.
2008 Units | 2009 Units | + or – |
79 | 65 | -17.72% |
The average sale price for February 2009 was down 12.28% compared to the same period in 2008. As you can see in the table below, the average sale price in February 2008 was $228,849 compared to $200,757 in 2009. As I have said before, for there to be a stabilization of home prices and then at some point a return of appreciation, we will need to see a smaller supply of homes available for sale and also a lessening of the pricing pressure that is currently being applied by distressed property sales, such as bank owned homes and short sales. In many of the price ranges there remains a significant oversupply of homes for sale.
2008 Avg Sale Price | 2009 Avg Sale Price | + or – |
$228,849 | $200,757 | -12.28% |