The company closed 1,418 homes in the third quarter of 2013, up 18% year over year. The company started raising prices in most of its communities with market demand gaining momentum. The average selling price of the closings increased 22% driven by a shift toward higher priced communities. Meritage's backlog totaled 2,190 homes as of Sep 30, 2013, up 35.4% from 1,618 homes as of Sep 30, 2012. The value of backlog grew 65% year over year to $806.3 million in the third quarter of 2013, owing to stronger demand, 22% increase in prices and 35% growth in order backlog. The highest increase in backlog value was noted in Carolinas (177%) followed by Colorado (158%). Florida and Texas backlog value each grew by 76% over the prior year quarter.