Owe more than your home is worth? You’re not alone. About one fifth of homeowners are in the same position.

The real estate Web site Zillow.com reported that 21.8% of all U.S. homes, representing more than 16 million residences, were in a “negative equity” or “underwater” position after prices dropped more than 14% nationally in the year ended March 31.

Housing prices have increased slightly but they are definitely off their highs and some people may take years to recuperate their losses if ever.

Selling a home now is difficult but not impossible. If you are really must sell, see if it is possible to trade your home for another of similar quality in an area that you are interested in. This way you will not have to worry about a loss and will still be able to move.

Want to sell but can’t and need to, see if you can lease or rent your property to someone. This way you will still have an opportunity to have someone in your property and you will have some income from the property.

If you have taken a home equity loan and used the money other than for home improvements your home’s value might have more depreciation. Some improvements that were made were out of range with the neighborhood.

There is still a chance to sell your home, it is just taking longer and for those who bought with the hopes of flipping the property to make a quick profit, you may be disappointed and lose your shirt. The people who bought a property because they fell in love with it and wanted to stay there for a while should just stay put and try to do the best that they can.