In the past....here in NC....we have seen an average of about 3.5% annually. However, with the market shifting and foreclosures becoming so popular it has been much less. I usually tell my clients to plan on being the home for about 2 years prior to selling, this will usually allow them to at least break even. These days, the benefit is not found when selling, it is found when you buy. So many sellers are taking a hit on the sell side, but making it up...and then some.. when they buy a great deal. If you keep you home in great shape and preform all the maintainence and the area does not go down hill, you should be in decent shape in 5 years. Good luck! - Wed Sep 16 2009, 11:48