National and Tampa Bay Home Sales Continue to Rise

2013 continues to be a comeback year for the housing market as home sales continue to improve on a national and local level. In July, U.S. existing home sales hit 5.4 million, the highest number since 2009, while new home sales have risen 38 percent in the past 12 months. On a local level, Tampa Bay new home sales increased 22.5 percent over the previous year. With the housing market getting stronger, pricing and interest rates are on the rise and now is the time to purchase your perfect new home in Tampa Bay.\n\nThe increase in Tampa Bay home sales means that inventory is decreasing and home prices are rising. According to a report from the Florida Realtors trade group, the median sale price for a single-family home in the Tampa Bay area increased 26.9 percent year-over-year in July to $165,000. Florida Realtors defines the Tampa Bay area as Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Hernando counties.\n\nWith a short supply of existing homes on the market, new construction is flourishing as Florida home builders, including Highland Homes, work to meet the housing demand. We are currently selling stylish single-family homes in several communities throughout the Tampa Bay area, and will soon offer beautiful townhomes at Oakwood Terrace in Valrico. With more than 30 stylish home designs available, a wide variety of interior selections to choose from and affordable pricing from the low-$100,000s, you are sure to find your dream home at one of our Tampa Bay communities.\n\nIn addition to Tampa Bay, we currently build Central Florida new homes in Orlando, Lakeland, Winter Haven and Manatee County. For more information on all of our Florida communities, visit the Highland Homes website today.