The increased average sale price was indicative not of prices going up, but more of houses selling at the top end of the market.
"I think this will continue. We had two properties that were open for the first time last weekend in Brookfield and had 46 inspections. Another property in Otumoetai had 43 ... in one weekend."
Tauranga Harcourts managing director Simon Martin agreed.
"Instead of selling a lot of $400,000 properties, we're selling at a $500,000 average sale price. This harks back to the LVR situation [loan-to-value ration restrictions], although that is having less and less effect," Mr Martin said.
Buyers who had been told a year ago they could not get a mortgage were returning after saving for a deposit and securing properties. "As time goes on, the LVR restrictions will have less effect in the market place."
As well as Auckland buyers, Mr Martin was seeing expats returning from Australia to buy homes in Tauranga.
Eves and Bayleys Real Estate chief executive Ross Stanway said the figures were promising.
"I think that continues to show that there is a good balance between supply and demand. There's new stock coming on stream in terms of land and build packages.
"There's more properties coming on to the market although there are still relatively low numbers," he said. "I think that bodes well for Tauranga.
"We've had a very good January ... a very good start to the year."
QV valuer Mairi Macdonald said the Tauranga housing market was steady, with good activity and sales: "There is strong buyer interest in new subdivisions in Papamoa and the entry-level price-bracket suburbs such as Greerton and Welcome Bay.
"The Western Bay of Plenty market remains stable with good interest in coastal properties in Waihi Beach and steady sales activity in the other regional towns."