Report: Home sales increased in region

SARASOTA — Sarasota-based real estate firm Michael Saunders & Co. released a first-quarter market update that states closed sales are up 5.29% in the region, including Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties, for first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016.

The company predicts the Sarasota region is positioned for long-term growth in 2017 and beyond, according to a press release.

“Compiling our first quarter report gives us a glimpse into what the year may hold, and we are very encouraged by the stable and upward trend that we see in the Sarasota region,” says Michael Saunders President Drayton Saunders in a statement.

Signed contracts, or pending sales, are also up in the region by 9.35% this quarter compared to last year. Median sales price is up 6.98%. Inventory is up 10.76%.

In Sarasota County, closed sales are up 3.14%; in Manatee County closed sales are up 4.35%; and in Charlotte County closed sales are up 11.39%.

Michael Saunders & Co. has 24 offices, more than 650 agents and 163 team members from Anna Maria Island to Boca Grande. Sales volume was more than $2.48 billion in 2016, according to a press release.