Is that data based on nominal or inflation adjusted figures? If its nominal, with the inflation we’ve had, its highly misleading and not good at all. If its inflation adjusted, then this really is a surprise on the up side and shows some real demand.
It’s units, not dollars, so there is no “inflation adjustment” applicable.
Now, what is not reported is median unit price.
Another thing that may be going on is flight to real estate from equity or bond or cash, as an inflation hedge.
Further, did the sales go to Blackrock and are they financed with an interest free loan? Obama sold 60000 homes in Tampa to Blackrock and loaned them the money.