Brent Wells June 28, 2017
We previously reported how a shortage of inventory in the starter and trade-up home markets is driving prices up and causing bidding wars, creating a true seller’s market. At the same time, in the premium home market, an overabundance of inventory has started to see prices come down and put buyers in the driver’s seat, creating the beginning of a buyer’s market.
Last week, the National Association of Realtors released its Existing Home Sales Report, which shed some additional light on the impact of inventory levels on sales in each price range.
The chart below shows the year-over-year difference in sales at each price range.

The under-$100 K range has shown declines in recent years due to the shortage of distressed homes available for sale (just 5% of sales this past month, compared to 35% in January 2012). Sales in the next two price ranges are no doubt being hindered by low inventory as buyers compete for the same home.
NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, explained:
"Those able to close on a home last month are probably feeling both happy and relieved. Listings in the affordable price range are scarce, homes are coming off the market at an extremely fast pace and the prevalence of multiple offers in some markets are pushing prices higher."
The biggest surprise? This is the first time in years that the $1M and up price range had the highest jump in sales when compared to last year and to all other price ranges (29.1%)! The two price ranges right underneath the $1M range were a close second and third. As the price went up, so did the sales!
With additional inventory available in the higher price ranges, and the economy improving, many luxury buyers are finding it easier to find their dream homes. Yun commented,
“The job market in most of the country is healthy and the recent downward trend in mortgage rates continues to keep buyer interest at a robust level.”
If you are one of the many homeowners who is looking to sell your starter or trade up home and move up to a luxury home, now is the time!
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
If you're not already familiar with the Celina story, the numbers speak for themselves.
EV-Ready Living. Light Farms offers electric car charging stations within the community.
Buying a new construction home is a fundamentally different process than buying a resale property.
You’re clearing multiple rooms, a garage, attic, shed, or light remodel debris.
You find yourself only using part of the house while the rest collects dust.
Keeping the same flooring throughout the main living areas helps create a smooth, cohesive flow.
Overpricing, even by a little, can cause a listing to sit stale — which often leads to price drops.
Every week I am visiting with many new homes sales associates and I am hearing a consistent story.
North Sky is a June 2025 favorite, with new contemporary homes featuring open layouts and smart tech.
We'd love to hear from you! Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we're here to provide answers, insights, and the support you need. Contact us and start planning your next move.