Existing home sales declined in both Brandon and Groveland townships while rising slightly in Atlas Township in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2007, according to a report issued by Realcomp Data Services. The average sales price dipped by about 6 percent in both Atlas and Brandon townships but increased in Groveland Township, according to the report.
Despite the sluggish home sales, Jeff Dawley, associate broker/president of Atlas Real Estate, 8491 State Road, Goodrich said it’s a great time to buy a house.

‘So far, the first part of the new year has been very positive,? said Dawley.
‘There’s a lot more activity in real estate now compared to last year, interest rates are very good and there’s lots of inventory to choose from. There’s plenty of bargains out there.?
While sales in Atlas Township were up slightly in 2008, sales of existing homes in Genesee County jumped by about 16 percent during January and February over last year, according to the Flint Area Association of Realtors (FAAR).
‘Right now, about 40 to 50 percent of all homes sold are foreclosures,? said Dawley.
‘Home prices in Genesee County dropped sharply by as much as 30 percent. There are bargains for buyers everywhere, we’ve not seen these prices for decades.?
In February, the average home sale price in Genesee County decreased from $112,551 to $78,248, according to the FAAR.