Northeast Queens Homeowners See Sale Price Increase

Real estate in New York has always been a fickle thing — but the clouds might be starting to recede, particularly for homeowners in Queens, according to the Real Estate Board of New York.

In a report released this week, the board examined New York City neighborhood by neighborhood, and found a 21 percent increase in home sales volume in the second quarter of 2013, compared to the previous three months. 

Average home prices also increased by six percent — hitting just under $650,000, 

It's also a very large jump compared to the same period last year, when the average sale price across the three neighborhoods was $652,000.

Home owners in Bayside, Douglaston and Little Neck have all seen increases, though for the moment the market seems strongest in Bayside.

Among one-to-three family homes, average sale prices have been steadily rising since early 2012. The current average price in Bayside is $691,000, an increase over the first quarter of this year of eight percent, and nine percent year-over-year.

In Douglaston and Little Neck, the numbers have been stronger this year than they are now, but homeowners and sellers still saw an increase over this time last year of 10 percent. The current average home sale price in those neighborhoods is $772,000.

Steven Spinola, president of the Real Estate Board, said prices are likely to continue their climb, particularly in hot areas, including Forest Hills.

“It remains to be seen what impact rising mortgage rates will have on sales activity going forward," Spinola said. "But the market overall is seeing steady gains and we anticipate the trend will continue.”