Home sales rebound around state

MILWAUKEE (AP) — The housing market continues to rebound in Wisconsin.

According to the Wisconsin Realtors Association, home sales climbed nearly 19 percent in May, compared to the same month last year. According to the association, it’s the 11th consecutive month of double-digit increases.

The median home sale price also rose in May, albeit slightly. The median price is up 1.5 percent to $138,000 in May.

Jim Smith of W.E. Smith Realty Inc., in Appleton, said there’s been a lot weighing on consumer confidence lately, including a tough job market and Wisconsin’s recall elections. But lately, Smith said consumers, in particular first-time home buyers, have been more eager to own a home as prices dropped.

Association president Michael Theo told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel an improving job market is having an impact.

Information from: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, http://www.jsonline.com