Region - The latest statistics released by property research company MDA DataQuick reveal that Sacramento-region homebuyers closed escrow on 3,420 new and existing houses in May, marking the 14th month in a row of sales increases. Median sales prices rose once again in the five area counties, spreading optimism amongst realtors looking for a profitable summer buying season. Amador County’s median in May was $209,500, up from $180,000 in April and down 29.5 percent from May 2008. Sacramento County showed the biggest improvement for the region, with prices climbing dramatically by 9.4 percent from $160,000 in March and April to $175,000 in May. Rising median home prices indicate an upward trend statewide. DataQuick statistics show a slight median rise in the six-county Los Angeles region, including San Diego, for the first time since July 2007. There was a 12.3 percent rise from April in the nine-county Bay Area. DataQuick analyst Andrew LePage attributes the abrupt May rise to a sales mix reflecting fewer hugely discounted bank repos and more higher-priced homes. Story by Alex Lane This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.