The Days on Market Puzzle: Unraveling Sales Velocity in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York Housing Markets

Understanding the dynamics of sales velocity is crucial for investors navigating the complexities of the real estate market. One key indicator of sales velocity is the number of days a property remains on the market (DOM). This blog post delves into the factors influencing DOM in three major U.S. cities: Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, providing insights for informed investment decisions. For a broader market analysis, consider the luxury market trends in Manhattan.

Comparing Key Market Metrics

Let's begin by examining the core metrics that define the current real estate landscape in these cities:

• Los Angeles, CA: The median sale price stands at $708,500, with homes spending an average of 43 days on the market.

• Chicago, IL: The median sale price is significantly lower at $350,000, but homes take slightly longer to sell, averaging 50 days on the market.

• New York, NY: The most expensive of the three, New York boasts a median sale price of $882,000, and properties remain on the market for an average of 64 days.

These initial figures reveal a diverse range of market conditions, each presenting unique opportunities and challenges for investors. The number of markets analysis is also a key factor to consider.

Analyzing Homes Sold and Inventory

Beyond median prices and DOM, the volume of homes sold and the available inventory provide further context. Here's a breakdown:

• Los Angeles: 100 homes were sold, with an inventory of 258 properties.

• Chicago: A significantly higher number of homes were sold at 709, with an inventory of 2183 properties.

• New York: Leading in sales volume, New York saw 1339 homes sold, supported by a substantial inventory of 8984 properties.

The relationship between homes sold and inventory is a critical indicator of market health. A high sales volume coupled with a low inventory suggests a seller's market, while the opposite indicates a buyer's market.

Days on Market: A Deeper Dive

The number of days a property spends on the market is influenced by a multitude of factors, including:

• Pricing Strategy: Overpriced properties tend to linger on the market, while competitively priced homes attract quicker offers.

• Property Condition: Well-maintained and updated homes generally sell faster than those requiring significant repairs or renovations.

• Market Conditions: Overall demand, interest rates, and economic factors play a significant role in sales velocity.

• Seasonal Variations: Real estate markets often experience seasonal fluctuations, with spring and summer typically being the busiest months.

In Los Angeles, the relatively low DOM of 43 days suggests a competitive market where well-priced properties are quickly snatched up. Chicago's 50 days on market indicates a slightly more balanced market, while New York's 64 days may reflect the higher price points and larger inventory available.

Data-Driven Insights for Investors

For real estate investors, understanding these dynamics is paramount. Here are some key takeaways:

• Los Angeles: Investors may need to act quickly and offer competitive bids to secure desirable properties. The median sale price of $708,500 reflects a strong market.

• Chicago: With a lower median sale price of $350,000 and a higher inventory, Chicago may offer more opportunities for value-oriented investors. However, the slightly longer DOM of 50 days suggests a need for careful property selection and pricing.

• New York: The high median sale price of $882,000 in New York demands a significant capital investment. The longer DOM of 64 days requires patience and a well-defined exit strategy.

Visualizing the Data

To better illustrate the differences in sales velocity, consider the following table:

City Median Price Homes Sold Inventory Days on Market Los Angeles, CA $708,500, 43 days Chicago, IL $350,000, 50 days New York, NY $882,000 , 64 days

Exploring Secondary Markets

While major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Chicago and New York offer significant opportunities, investors are increasingly looking towards secondary markets for potentially higher returns. For example, in Glenelg, the average median sale price is $1,050,000 with only 1 home sold and 0 inventory. Understanding the nuances of these smaller markets can provide a competitive edge. For more insights, explore markets analysis on why investors are shifting focus toward secondary markets in 2025.

Conclusion

The days on market puzzle is a complex one, with no single answer applicable to all markets. By carefully analyzing key metrics such as median prices, homes sold, inventory, and DOM, investors can gain a deeper understanding of market dynamics and make more informed decisions. Whether you're targeting the high-end market in New York, seeking value in Chicago, or navigating the competitive landscape of Los Angeles, a data-driven approach is essential for success. Don't forget to consider market analysis in coastal regions as well.