When buying a home, home price is definitely at the top of the things to consider. If you are thinking of making a purchase in the next 5 years, here’s a guide as to which cities could give you the best value for your money.

According to the latest home price report by Fiserv Case-Shiller, national home prices are expected to climb 0.6 percent in the next year and 3.3 percent in the next 5 years.

Fiserv Case-Shiller’s data helped us to identify the best housing markets for the next five years, based on the projected annualized change in home prices between Q3 2012 and Q3 2017.

Also included in this report are the median home price, median household income, unemployment rate, and change in home prices since their peak. These information could be vital in influencing your home-buying decision.

Note: The median family income and home price is for Q3 2012. Unemployment data is as of December 2012, and population data for the metros is for 2011.

Source: Fiserv Case-Shiller Indexes

Of course, I think the Reno – Sparks area is the best, partly because I live here, but there is a great university, awesome airport, great outdoor sports and the community is very friendly and fun.

Reno is a great place for retirees as there is no state income tax (43 other states have income tax). There are also no corporate income taxes. We do not have inheritance tax as well (Unless the person died prior to 2005). These, plus no direct estate tax make Nevada an attractive location, but as always, it would be best to check with your CPA.

We have an excellent health care system with over 1500 hospital beds in 12 medical facilities.

The place is also very suitable for students, as the University of Nevada Reno has a campus within 10 minutes walking time of downtown.

Ten different airlines serve Reno making for many direct flights and very easy connections to anywhere in the world.

Amtrak and major bus lines also serve the city.

Housing is fairly abundant and on average, affordable.

Thinking of relocating or purchasing a home in Nevada? Contact Margie McIntyre at 775/250-3181 or email her at Margie@margiemcintyre.com.

For more info about the Best Housing Markets: http://tinyurl.com/besthousingmarkets

Data from: Fiserv Case-Shiller Indexes