Indiana’s housing market slowed down in November, but buyers still had more choices than they’ve seen in five years. 

The Indiana Association of REALTORS says the number of homes for sale hit nearly 19,000 statewide, giving shoppers more options heading into winter. Pending sales edged slightly ahead of last year as mortgage rates hovered around 6.25 percent.

St. Joseph County remained steady, closing 244 sales, right on pace with last November, even as many major counties slipped.

Prices statewide remained stable, with a median sale price $267 thousand. Realtors say improving interest rates could bring more first-time buyers back into the market after the New Year.