OCTOBER MID-MONTH HOUSING STATISTICS

In the first two weeks of October, Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 3,631 sales – up 34 per cent compared to the first two weeks of October 2008. The average price for these transactions was up 17 per cent year-over-year to $414,479.

"While demand for existing homes has remained strong, it is important to recognize the context of current statistics. We are now making comparisons to the fall of 2008 when we experienced a marked decline in sales and average price," said TREB President Tom Lebour.

Year-to-date sales, at 69,964 are up six per cent compared to 2008. Average price, at$389,687, is up by two per cent.

"Tight market conditions throughout the GTA will continue to exert upward pressure on home prices in the fourth quarter," explained Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis. “Expect more listings in 2010 as home owners react to the price gains experienced in the second half of 2009.”