thanks all, it is a bit complex for me to analyze–especially when the future home values are so uncertain. we already have a home we rent (last duty station in maryland). i’m across the sound from seattle, so if anything i think a weaker housing market. it is hard to emotionally let go of 37k in one fell swoop, but it sounds as if even with the tax deductions we can take from a negative income rental that it will add up to at least that, and of course possibly much more if we have to sell in 3 years at an even greater loss–yuck. from what i understand, at least by selling now, i might have the possibility of qualifying for a loan to buy in SD if something comes along. right now, the areas my wife wants to be (schools) seem to be charging home prices over 12 times the annualized rent price–which from what i’ve read here means prices will be falling (except in la jolla and coronado, where they may stay above 12x ??)
thanks
jim