Looking to make a smart investment decision that pays off in the long run? Look no further than the world of homeownership. While many factors can impact the value of a home, experts are projecting a return to steadier rates of appreciation in the years ahead, meaning that those who invest now can reap significant rewards down the line.

According to the latest quarterly Home Price Expectation Survey by Pulsenomics, over 100 economists, investment strategists, and housing market analysts agree that we're not likely to see drastic drops in home prices across the board. While some markets may appreciate more than others in the coming years, the long-term outlook is optimistic for those who take the plunge into homeownership.

And the benefits don't stop there. As your home's value appreciates over time, so does your household wealth. The HPES projections suggest that even a modest $400,000 home purchased this year could appreciate in value by over $54,000 within just five years. Th ...