The message may be repetitive, but it is largely positive. Sales increased by 9.6 percent to 2,377 in Monroe County during the second quarter of the year, as compared to 1,980 during the same period of 2015. The Median Sale Price hovered at nearly the same level at $133,450, inching down 1.1 percent from $136,000 last year.

"The number of homes available in Monroe fell by 19.8 percent (to 2,441) this past quarter," says GRAR President, Toni Connors. "That continuing shortage, plus the more than 9 percent jump in sales is evidence that demand is strong and buyers are willing to pay what sellers are asking to secure their dream home."

"Our market remains strong and the summer months are typically the busiest of the year.
There is great opportunity for current home owners considering putting their residence up for sale with less competition from fewer listings," Connors added.

According to GRAR CEO, Jim Yockel. "Favorable economic conditions, such as low interest rates, rising stock market valuations and dropping unemployment levels are encouraging signs. For those looking to make a purchase, affordability is still positive."

Many other Finger Lakes & Southern Tier counties within the GRAR service area also experienced positive growth. Yates County reported impressive gains with a 72.5 percent increase in sales compared to the same period last year. Seneca County also witnessed strong activity, posting a 25.5 increase in quarterly sales with median prices also increasing modestly by 45.0 percent. Ontario County saw a slight 1.3 percent drop in sales, but had a solid 9.5 percent gain in median sales price.

The Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS� is a not-for-profit trade association representing and supporting more than 2,900 REALTORS� in the Rochester metro area and beyond with chapters serving portions of the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier. REALTORS� are real estate professionals who subscribe to a strict code of ethics put forth by the National Association of REALTORS�. GRAR also provides a public website featuring all property listings in the region served at www.HomeSteadNet.com.