Home sales in the Harrisburg region rose almost 25% in September from the year before, as the industry continues its robust recovery from the COVID-19 shutdown.

As expected, July home sales surged in the Central Pennsylvania region as houses that went under contract after the real estate industry reopened moved to settlement.

Local real estate leaders are detecting some shifts in homebuyer behavior because of COVID-19, whether it’s more caution in the purchasing process, a desire for extra room or closer access to recreational offerings.

Home sales in the three counties covered by the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors plummeted 52% over last year as much of the industry was shut down by COVID-19 restrictions.

The Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR) have installed a new president for its board and foundation for 2020.

The number of available homes to buy in the Harrisburg area continues to fall, which has led to more competing offers and higher home prices. The median-sale price in May was up 12 percent from last year.

Home prices in Central Pennsylvania continue to rise amid a dwindling supply of homes for sale.