Neither my Bachelors or my Masters degree was in Economics so can someone explain why some sets have a higher used value than new? Diagon Alley being one. I am sure there is a simple explanation, i am just unaware of it. Thanks in advance.

Just a theory here...maybe if you add all the values for what each element in the set is selling for separately, it would exceed the value for the whole set. For instance, you have 10 mini figs and three buildings you could potentially sell separately, plus a lot of little odds and ends in that set that people might pay a couple bucks for. Does that make sense? I wasn't able to put this into words as easily as I could explain it verbally.

I see what you are saying but I think that the market value is for complete used sets.....who am I to disagree with your theory, as it is more than i could come up with lol, I'm sure when Ed, Jeff or the other admin read this they will have the answer.

I will keep an eye on this, as I would also be interested in seeing what the Macks have to say about it. If it is indeed based on complete used sets, then it would be rather odd that the values are higher.

Neither my Bachelors or my Masters degree was in Economics so can someone explain why some sets have a higher used value than new? Diagon Alley being one. I am sure there is a simple explanation, i am just unaware of it. Thanks in advance.

The ebay quoted $ values include all sets listed as new, regardless of other variables - such as whether the minifigs are not included, or other things such as no box included. In the case of the DA - I see that someone on ebay sells the buildings separately, which would certainly lower the avg price.

It is what it is. I have no more knowledge than you. Some silly people pay more money for used sets than new. Maybe they are getting shipped to countries where new sets are not available and used LEGO sets are a cheaper option to ship in smaller boxes(many used sets lack the original LEGO box). There are many LEGO fans that have a hard time acquiring new sets from regular sources. There could be customs issues, fees, taxes, etc...This is my best guess.