This is a question we are always asked when people find out we are REALTORS. We look at monthly, quarterly and yearly data to determine the health of the market. We also look at specific counties.

               Looking at February of 2013 compared to 2012, grouping condos and single family homes together, Chittenden County is looking great. We don't say that lightly. The average sales price for February is up 13% over last year and the median price is up 15%. When we do the quarterly figures next month we will have a better picture of the market.

 We also like to consider how many months of inventory are currently on the market - how long it would take to "absorb" all the houses and condos for sale on the MLS. That figure is about 5 � months indicating neither a buyers' nor a sellers' market. However, the percentage increase in median and average sales price is hopefully a good sign of things to come.

The data in Grand Isle County is just too small for us to evaluate and form an opinion on the health of the market in the Islands. We will look at that county when we do our quarterly report next month. The Franklin County towns of Fairfax, Georgia, Highgate and St. Albans City and Town showed a decrease in the median sales price and an increase in the average. Days on market increased from 113 in 2012 to 137 in 2013. Our quarterly report will give a clearer picture in those towns as there is not significant data to draw conclusions.

When people ask us how the market is, we are going to say, "We are optimistic!"