THE LOVE AFFAIR with bricks and mortar is apparently continuing, despite news reports of a collapsing market and plunging prices.

The good customers of EBS, however, have their rose-tinted glasses firmly on the end of their noses.

According to a new survey published by the building society, 39 per cent of the respondents claim that the value of their home increased over the past 12 months!

Only 19 per cent felt that the value of their property had decreased in the same period. The reality, of course, is that prices from Ballinasloe to Ballsbridge, and from Howth to Hackballscross, are down dramatically, no matter who you bank with.

There is hope nevertheless for EBS customers, 54 per cent of whom said they believed that prices would drop over the next 12 months.