A lot of people think that the economy is the number one factor impacting real estate appreciation. It goes without saying that interest rates, employment, business growth, government programs and quite a few other national factors have a noticeable effect on your property's value. But the most important issues that figure your home's value depend on the local Fresno economy and residential market.

Location in a community - Most people want homes in the regions with the most convenient places we go often or everyday, like our schools and work. So when it comes to holding their value, these regions typically appreciate better than others.

Recent home sales - You should receive figures on the recent real estate sales in the areas that you're asking about from your real estate agent. You'll want to learn things like time on market and seller discounts.

History of appreciation - In the past 5 to 10 years, have home prices gone up or down? Does location or affordability affect how desirable the neighborhood is believed to be?

Local economy - Is there a nice mixture of jobs in an area, or does it rely upon just one industry? Have businesses moved into or away from an area? Are local businesses hiring? All these play a part.