House prices are falling at the steepest rate on record, but for some buyers, the attraction of a home is overcoming the anxiety of buying a depreciating asset.

From October through April, North County homes lost about 3 percent in equity —- per month. Right in the middle of that slide, which some analysts expect to continue through the year, Steve and Shelby Nowak pooled their savings and made the biggest purchase of their lives, a $447,000 house.

The Nowaks are among a growing group of people buying houses who say they believe they not only got a good deal but also believe their dwelling ultimately will grow in value.

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