It's worth much less than it used to be, but it's home, Dave and Maryann Gustafson decided.

In May, their lender agreed.

The company modified their loan, temporarily trimming the US$1,000 a month increase in their payment to US$400. It's a stretch, but will keep the Gustafsons in their home at least until the modified terms expire in two years.

Greg Giniel is not so sure. His home, owned by his investment partner, is scheduled for a foreclosure auction in November.

"I've got to figure out how to buy my own home back," Giniel says. "If God doesn't pull me out of this one, I don't know where else I'm going to go."

Things looked just as uncertain to Joy and Paul Kessler, until they did the math.

They could fight to save their house. But what was the point? It's worth at least US$40,000 less than they paid. They can rent in this depressed market for a fraction of their monthly payment.

"It's sad to say but honestly, we don't feel like there's anything worth saving in this house," Joy says. "Financially, we've got nothing to show for it."

So the couple decided to let the place go. Everyone said it was the right thing to do.

Still, it doesn't sit right with her husband, a painter and construction worker. When times were good they made a commitment, Paul tells Joy. Somehow, it doesn't feel right to just walk away.