I would recommend to find somewhere to rent. Agreed with your analysis that over the next 2 years we will continue to drop. Actually it will last longer then that but that timeframe will help you get used to the area. Where you want to live will depend on alot of factors, school districts if that is important to you, commute, proximity to the coast, etc… You will have plenty of time to find something you like but if you rent you will really learn about the city. You cannot go wrong!