I am presently working in NYC but plan on retiring and moving to North Carolina in 4-5 years.?

well i would think it would be cheaper to buy it now, but you will have to pay property taxes on it the next few years while you are not able to move into it yet.but i would think house prices would probably be higher in 4 or 5 years from now.cause right now houses seem to be cheaper due to all the foreclosures.but just make sure your in the area you want to be in.you could change your mind in 4 or 5 years. thats the downside.