Real estate values are on the rise.  For over a decade prior to 2002, there was no real movement in property values.  Between 2002 and 2003, with over 19,000 real estate transactions in Erie County, a study identified positive trends.  Prices are up.  There has been a 6% increase in the median price of all properties sold since 2002 and a 10% increase since 2001.  Also, the number of high-end real estate transactions ($250,000 or greater) is increasing.