The existing home sales in Florida rose in April, according to housing data that was released by Florida Realtors. Increasing by 2% in an annual comparison, the existing home sales in Florida have shown a steady increase for five consecutive months.

According to Patricia Fitzgerald, Florida Realtors President, Market conditions remain optimal for qualified buyers with strong credit. Mortgage interest rates are under five percent, a range of housing options is available at very affordable prices, and the economic recovery continues to strengthen. Realtors across the state are reporting increased interest from buyers ready to find their Florida dream home.

The median sales price for existing homes in Florida during the month of April was $131,700, showing a 6% decrease in an annual comparison. According to analysts with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the sales of foreclosed properties are warping the median sales price as they normally sell for a discounted price. The median is also known as the midpoint; half of the homes sold for more than the median and half of the homes sold for less.

NAR predicts that existing home sales are going to continue to rise gradually. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with NAR, Existing home sales have risen in six of the past eight months, so were clearly on a recovery path, with rising jobs and excellent affordability conditions, we project moderate improvements into 2012, but not every month will show a gain, primarily because some buyers are finding it too difficult to obtain a mortgage.