For many aspiring homeowners, the dream of purchasing a starter home feels increasingly out of reach. Options have become scarce as rising prices push many would-be buyers out of the market. Climbing mortgage rates have only compounded this challenge.
However, new findings from Realtor.com® economists offer a detailed look at the state of starter home inventory. According to their research, the national share of starter homes fell from 38.1% of active listings in August 2019 to 36.2% in August 2026. During that same period, starter home prices rose by 30.8%, from approximately $260,000 to $340,000…