Americans still view homeownership favorably

Despite the effects of the recent housing crisis, a recent survey finds that the vast majority of Americans still think buying a home is a strong investment.

According to a national poll by the Pew Research Center, 81 percent of U.S. adults agree that homeownership is the best possible long-term investment. According to the survey, 37 percent strongly agreed that it was a strong investment, while 44 percent agreed to a lesser degree.

Researchers found that respondents were aware of how far home prices had fallen, despite their results, with 78 percent saying their home's value had either stayed the same or dropped since the start of the recession. Of those with lower prices, 86 percent say it will take at least three years for them to make up that ground.

However, those numbers are slightly down from the past. The Pew Center says a 1991 CBS News/New York Times survey found that 49 percent strongly agreed, while 35 percent agreed somewhat.

Home prices in Houston have remained strong, only amplifying the long-term value of Houston homes. According to the Houston Association of Realtors, home prices in February were their highest ever for the month.

Courtesy of 2M Realty News