Bargain hunters are out in full force.  How do we know?  Existing home sales have increased in many markets across the country, and by as much as 76% in some areas.

 Martin and St. Lucie counties in Florida saw an increase in existing home sales of 76% in October from a year ago, all while prices dropped to their lowest level in five years.

 “This is part of the healing process, we have to get rid of all this excess inventory,”  Scott Wingfield, president of the Realtors Association of St. Lucie County said.  “The prices are indicative of the market, people are taking full advantage of foreclosures.”  (Nadia Vanderhoof, www.TCPalm.com)

 “This continues to be reflective of the large percentage of business coming from short sales and foreclosures,” said Vincent Laviano, president of Realty Executives-Treasure Coast and president of the Realtor Association of Martin County.  “I personally see this as a buying opportunity.”  (Nadia Vanderhoof, www.TCPalm.com)

 The state of Florida as a whole saw a 15% increase in existing home sales in the month of October compared to a year ago.  Massachusetts saw an increase as well – 14% in October while their home prices fell 13.9%.  You get the picture.

 Some markets, however, are still on the decline.  They, too, will pick up once prices bottom out and foreclosed homes explode the inventories of available homes.

Offer a steal and you’ll be flooded with buyers!