TAKE IT FROM THE TOP

Three Florida cities ranked among the top 5 in the nation for rising home values, according to Business 2.0 magazine: Panama City (No. 1), with a 72 percent projected gain in home prices over five years. A new airport that will be built next year will open the area to vacationers and residents. Vero Beach came in at No. 2, with a 64 percent projected gain in home prices over five years. Demand for housing along with moderate property taxes and beautiful weather will drive growth. Finally, Lakeland ranked No. 4 with a 59 percent projected gain in home prices over five years. This growing area is only 30 minutes from Tampa via Interstate 4, but prices are one-fifth less, according to the study.