Mass. home sales fall 23 percent

Greater Boston fared slightly better in the third quarter than many other parts of the state as a "healthy correction" softened housing sales and ushered in one of the strongest buyers' markets in years, according to a report issued today by the Massachusetts Association of Realtors.

Statewide, the number of third-quarter sales for detached single-family homes fell 23.4 percent, compared to a year ago, and Greater Boston sales decreased 19.5 percent.

The statewide median selling price dropped 4.9 percent to $352,000, compared with 1.9 percent dip to $505,000 for Greater Boston.

Statewide, the number of third-quarter condo sales fell 22.3 percent; the Greater Boston drop was 20.3 percent.

The statewide median selling price for a condo was $275,000, down 2.5 percent.

The Greater Boston median selling price was $337,000, down 2.3 percent.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)