http://www.trulia.com/voices/Market_Conditions/Houses_sold_in_this_area_are_much_older_Awesome_-16718downturn of manufacturing jobs in the area (GM and Ford) I would expect values to depreciate. How do I make sure that the money I would invest in a home, in this area, to appreciate in value?en-ushttp://www.trulia.com/voices/profile/Real_Estate_Pro-Redding_CA-124235/http://www.trulia.com/voices/profile/Real_Estate_Pro-Redding_CA-124235/Depending on your local market, you most likely will not be able to sell in 6 months for more than what you'll paying if you bought today. However, over a long enough timeline, 5 years or greater, real estate continues to be the safest long term investment. If after 5 years your house hasn't appreciated in value, you still haven't lost any of your original investment, unless you have to sell. If you can ride it out, you'll always be on top. Don't believe me? Find out what the price of homes were in your area 10 , 20 and 30 years ago. You dont make money when you sell real estate, you make money when you buy.Sun, 23 Dec 2007 20:42:52 -0800