This is in line with state wide trend according to local real estate principal from L J Hooker Paul Duffy.

Mr Duffy said that almost everywhere in the state is suffering from a decline in sales apart from Karratha and Broome.

Figures from the Australian Property Monitors show that in the three months leading up to August this year there were only 77 houses sold compared to 115 in the same period in 2010.

Mr Duffy said the decline in sales is for a number of reasons.

“The media coverage of the economy has not helped and has lowered buyer’s confidence,” he said

“The banks have also made the criteria for loans tougher as well.”

While the sale figures have reduced the prices have remained steady.

Mr Duffy said that because of the low prices it is a great time buy.

“Prices cannot remain this low forever,” he said.