Briefly:

Sales of new and existing homes in Ventura County totaled 1,074 in August, up 18% from 909 in July and up 24% from 864 in August, 1993, reports Dataquick Information Systems. “Higher-priced homes are starting to move,” Dataquick analyst John Karevoll reported. He adds that buyers are dodging rising interest rates by opting for adjustable-rate mortgages. . . . Chelsea GCA Realty and Koll Real Estate Group / Los Angeles broke ground on Camarillo Factory Stores, scheduled to open in January as a rival of nearby Oxnard Factory Stores. An Edwards Theatres multiplex adjoining the Camarillo center is due to open in November.