LOS ANGELES (AP) — Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes rose in February as easing mortgage rates and more properties on the market encouraged home shoppers. Existing home sales rose 4.2% last month from January to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.26 million units, the National Association of Realtors said Thursday.

Sales of existing homes rose 4.2%, reflecting an increase in shopping activity and in the number of homes for sale since the start of the year.

Sales of existing homes rose in February, as some buyers — particularly those with higher incomes — are keeping the upper end of the market alive and well.