October home-price data in the S&P/Case-Schiller Home Price Indices showed declines in 19 of 20 metropolitan areas in the widley watched report's survey.

The 10-city and 20-city composite indices also slid somewhat, the study found. They were down 1.1 percent and 1.2 percent from September, respectively. Year-to-year, the 10-city composite was down 3.0 percent and the 20-city was 3.4 percent lower.

“There was weakness in the monthly statistics, as 19 of the cities posted price declines in October over September,” David M. Blitzer, chairman of the Index Committee at S&P Indices, said. “Eleven of the cities and both composites fell by 1.0% or more during the month. And even though some of the annual rates are improving, 18 cities and both composites are still negative."

The bright spots in the report were Washington, D.C., and Detroit, where home prices showed positive annual returns of 2.5 percent and +1.3 percent, respectively.

The Wall Street Journal offered an analysis of the metro markets report.