Sales of existing single-family homes in New York remained consistent in November compared to the November 2000 total, according to single-family sales data accumulated by the New York State Association of Realtors®. The data showed an average selling price increase of 5.6 percent compared to the same period a year ago.

The November 2001 sales total of 6,736 represents a statistically insignificant decrease (0.4 percent) from the November 2000 sales total of 6,766. The November 2001 sales total fell 20 percent from the record-setting October 2001 total of 8,419.

The statewide average selling price rose by 5.6 percent to $141,501 from the $134,056 average in November 2000. The November 2001 average fell slightly from the October 2001 average of $143,458.

Of the local boards/associations reporting, 14 reported sales gains compared to a year ago and 4 showed increases from October. The Cattaraugus and Oswego Counties led the state in growth compared to November 2000 with increases of 225-percent and 51.2-percent, respectively. Genesee County posted the greatest sales increase compared to October, posting 54.5-percent gain.

Twenty-five boards reported gains in average selling price compared to November 2000, while 21 reported gains compared to October 2001. The Northern Adirondack board led the state in average sales price growth compared to a year ago with an increase of 41.9 percent. West Steuben/Allegany led the state in average sales price growth compared to October, posting an 86.8-percent increase.