Home sales in the Wilmington area soared by 30 percent in August this year compared to the same month in 2015, according to statistics released Monday.

While the number of units sold in New Hanover, Pender and northern Brunswick counties rose from 683 to 889, the average price fell slightly and the median price decreased more than 5 percent, according to the latest N.C. Regional Multiple Listing Service home sales numbers from the Wilmington Regional Association of Realtors.

Meanwhile, the total sales volume increased from about $178 million to more than $231 million. 

“The Wilmington area real estate market continues to show overall robust activity. We’re seeing modest growth from July 2016 to August 2016, with the average sales price up to $260,238, the median sales price down to $206,000, with positive growth in total sales volume of $231,352,357, and fewer days on market (DOM), now 79 days," said Don Harris, president of WRAR, in a news release. "August 2015 vs. August 2016 showed a very good increase in total units sold and total sales volume."

The last time the number of homes sold rose 30 percent was June 2015 compared to June 2014.

Prices were down in August.  

"There were minor losses in average and median prices, but continued success in fewer days on market (DOM)," Harris said. "January 2015 to August 2015 vs. January 2016 to August 2016 experienced an impressive 20.29% increase in total units sold, with an almost 20% increase in total sales volume, and a significant reduction in days on market (DOM) of -14.64%, now at 98 days.”
 

Home sales comparisons to date

	Jan.-Aug. 2015	Jan.-Aug. 2016	% change
Total units sold	4,998	6,012	20.29
Avg. sales price	$249,300	$248,014	-.52
Median sales price	$203,144	$205,213	1.02
Days on market	114	98	-14.64
New listings	8,005	8,233	2.85