The latest MAR data shows some very positive trends in the Florida housing market.

The latest batch of statistics from the Miami Association of Realtors (MAR) offers a number of positive details about the Florida housing market in July, primarily that condo prices have increased for the first time since 2008.

Condo prices increased by 8 percent from a year ago, while condo and single-family home sales rose by 12 percent.

Ralph E. De Martino, the residential president of MAR, told World Property Channel the statistics imply both a resiliency to negative factors and a hopeful outlook for future markets.

“We continue to experience strong sales activity despite declining distressed inventory,” Martino said. “July marks the first time since the boom that the median sales price has increased for condominiums. This is a positive sign because it is indicative of demand for non-distressed properties, which will result in future market strengthening and rising home values.”

Data was even more optimistic at the local level. Compared to July 2010, single-family home sales in the Miami Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) rose 47 percent, while existing condominium sales increased 33 percent.

Jack H. Levine, the current chairman of the board of MAR, said of local real estate, “Miami is a hotspot for tourists, the entertainment industry, and global corporations, generating attention from around the world and boosting the local real estate market.”

Sales prices were also on the upside. Average sales prices for single-family homes in Miami-Dade County were up 9.3 percent from last year, and the average condominium sales price increased 17.9 percent.

After Miami Agent first reported on positive Miami real estate news three weeks ago, it looks like the trend is continuing.