Home prices in the Washington region are improving to the point where those who bought their homes in 2004 should be able to make a profit on the sale, according to a new report. Since the market low during March and April 2009, prices in the region have risen 15 percent, according to real estate valuation firm Clear Capital. The region includes Northern Virginia, much of Maryland and parts of West Virginia.

“Now prices are around 2004 prices,” said Alex Villacorta, senior statistician at Clear Capital. “So buyers who have been sitting on these properties for quite some time are probably happier and can make a profit now.”