Sales of previously-owned US homes jumped by 10.1% in October as buyers rushed to take advantage of tax credits, which have now been extended.
The National Association of Realtors said sales hit a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.1 million, up from a revised 5.54 million in September.
First-time buyer tax credits had been due to expire at the end of November, but have been extended until 30 April.
The jump in October home sales was the biggest in almost three years.
It was also much bigger than analysts had expected.
The increase pleased the markets, helping to lift America's main share index, the Dow Jones, up 133 points or 1.3% to close Monday at 10,451.
Low interest rates also helped to boost sales - the association said mortgage rates in October were at their third lowest since 1971.
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