HOME SALES SLIP IN JANUARY, PRICES RISE

Arkansas’ statewide home sales fell 1.3% in January 2010 compared to one year ago, although two of the state’s largest counties saw double-digit declines.

The Arkansas Realtors Association reports that overall sales dropped in three of the five largest markets in the state. Pulaski County home sales tumbled 12.5%, while Benton County saw an 11.3% decline and Sebastian County sales dropped 11.1%.

Washington County home sales rose 3.4% and Saline County sales grew by 1.6%.

Average home prices trended higher in January. The average home price in Arkansas rose 2.6% to $139,220.

Analysts suggest that the troubled economy and job insecurity contributed to the mediocre report.