The economy is believed to be the top factor affecting real estate appreciation. Naturally, interest rates, unemployment, job growth, government programs and several other national determinants have a noticeable influence on your house's worth. However, your property's value and the features that play the most significant role in its appreciation depend on the local Sherman Oaks economy and housing market.

Access to services - Proximity to schools and jobs also have a significant influence on almost all home buyers' choices. So when it comes to retaining their value, these regions typically appreciate the best.

Recent home sales - You should receive figures on the recent real estate sales in the regions that you'd like to live in from your agent. You'll need to learn data like time on market and seller discounts.

Appreciation history - Have property prices gone up or down over the past 5-10 years? Is the area believed to be desirable because of its location or affordability?

The local economy - Are local businesses hiring? Have companies moved into or away from an area? Is there a fair mixture of business in an area, or does it depend on just one industry? Is the mix of commercial and residential development changing? All these play a role.