The state with houses that are essentially unsold is Nevada. This situation is primarily due to a combination of factors including a high inventory of homes, a lack of new construction, and a strong demand for housing. According to the Nevada Association of Realtors, as of the second quarter of 2023, the state had a total of 10,795 homes on the market, which is a significant increase from the previous year. This high inventory is a result of several factors:

1. Economic Boom and Population Growth: Nevada has experienced rapid population growth, particularly in cities like Las Vegas, due to its economic boom, especially in the gaming and entertainment industries. This influx of people has created a high demand for housing, but the supply has not kept pace.

2. Construction Delays: The construction industry in Nevada has faced challenges, including labor shortages and supply chain disruptions. These delays have contributed to a slower rate of new home construction, exacerbating the inventory issue.

3. Investment and Speculation: Nevada has been a popular destination for real estate investors and speculators, who have bought up properties in anticipation of future price increases. This has led to a situation where many homes are not being sold to actual occupants, but rather held as investments.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation further support these claims. The census data shows that Nevada's population has grown by over 3% annually since 2010, while the Department of Employment's statistics indicate that the construction sector has been struggling with a labor shortage, with unemployment rates in the industry reaching 7.2% in 2022.

The high inventory of unsold homes in Nevada is a complex issue with no single solution. Addressing it will require a coordinated effort from the government, developers, and the real estate industry to increase construction, streamline the permitting process, and manage the influx of new residents effectively.