For many years, it was pretty much a given that when you bought a house it would increase in value.

Oh, how times change.

Since the real estate market collapsed during the financial crisis of 2008, people have not really been able to experience a boost in their property.

In fact, according to a new survey of 700 homeowners, only 49 percent say that their houses were worth more than when they bought it.

Thirty percent think they’re house is worth less than when they purchased it and 20 percent believe they value is about the same.

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