The first half of January blows away recent records for sales volume – partly thanks to high-dollar sales. See all the custom data here now.

While the market fills with pricey rentals, and journalists document inflated prices, regulators and real estate organizations are warning about "price gouging" rules. How about 1 year in jail, a $10K criminal fine, or civil fines of $2,500 per instance?

Sellers and rental property owners are raising their prices above what they previously sought. Potential tenants and buyers don't have much choice.