The benefits of secured borrowing have been highlighted by new data from Halifax after it found that over the last decade house prices have, on average, doubled.

The data is sourced from the Halifax House Price Index, and despite a fall of more than one-fifth between mid 2007 and mid 2009, house prices increased by more in real terms than in any other decade over the last 50 years. The bank says house prices increased by 105% during the past decade, taking the UK average house price from £81,596 at the end of 1999 to £167,020 at the end of 2009.

Martin Ellis, housing economist at Halifax, says: "The noughties was a significant decade for house prices. Overall, prices increased considerably despite the marked decline towards the end of the decade.

"The majority of towns that experienced the strongest price growth began the decade with lower than average property prices, which provided the platform for bigger price gains. Seaside towns fared particularly well as the attraction of having a home on the coast helped to boost demand."

So why does this highlight the benefits of secured borrowing? Well, proof that house prices doubled confirms that many people have more assets than they think. And while it is foolhardy to think that house prices will rise anywhere near this much in the next decade, houses are currently holding their worth and that amassed equity is safe for now.

To see if you could take advantage of this massive leap in prices you need to talk to a secured mortgage adviser. They can help you assess how much your home is worth and what you can do with your biggest asset. Amassed equity should only ever be spent wisely, so talk to an expert before you unlock any of your most prized asset.

SOURCE: Halifax, 27/01/10

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