#United States #Housing Market #Tempe #Homeowners #Unlock Technologies

Continued Pessimism Among U.S. Homeowners

Recent findings from a survey by Unlock Technologies highlight a troubling trend among U.S. homeowners, who continue to express significant doubts about the economy and the housing market. Nearly half of the respondents, 49%, have declared their personal finances as the major source of stress in their lives. This survey, conducted between September 18 and 22, 2025, includes responses from over 2,000 homeowners across the nation and reflects an overarching sense of worry regarding fiscal stability.

Michael Micheletti, the Chief Marketing Officer at Unlock Technologies, points out that many homeowners perceive the Federal Reserve's recent decision to lower interest rates as too little, too late. The anticipated initial cut of 0.25% is seen as inadequate to encourage proactive financial behavior like purchasing new homes, refinancing existing loans, or tackling outstanding debts. Instead, homeowners are opting to remain in a state of financial caution, with many bracing themselves for even higher household expenses in 2026.

Economic Sentiment

The survey paints a bleak picture of financial optimism, with 54% of homeowners expressing a negative outlook on the U.S. economy. A staggering 40% feel more financially vulnerable compared to one year prior, indicating a clear downward trend in their economic confidence. The rising costs of living are a significant concern; 55% expect to spend more on household necessities in the following year, marking a 7% increase since January of this year.

Generational Financial Stress

Moreover, financial instability appears to cut across generational lines. Millennials, in particular, report the highest levels of stress due to personal finances, with 58% indicating that it is their primary concern. This demographic's challenges are compounded by the struggles of entering the housing market, carrying increased educational debt, and recovering from the repercussions of the Great Recession. The survey highlights a narrowing margin of financial stressors among other generations, such as Generation X and Baby Boomers, who are managing responsibilities both to their children and aging parents.

Emergency Funds and Financial Preparedness

Worryingly, over one-third of homeowners have saved less than $1,000 for emergencies, a significant increase from previous surveys. The financial preparedness of homeowners has deteriorated, as data indicates that 27% do not have any emergency savings at all. This lack of a financial safety net is contributing to the rising anxiety about unexpected expenses, further deepening their pessimism regarding financial futures.

Lack of Action Despite Interest Rate Cuts

Despite the Federal Reserve's commitment to reducing interest rates, only 25% of homeowners anticipate 2026 as a favorable year for home buying, while 33% believe it could be advantageous for selling. Many homeowners remain hesitant to act. Specifically, 59% are unwilling to buy a new home until 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rates decrease to 6% or lower. Additionally, 92% would not consider cash-out refinancing until rates reach a comparable threshold.

Homeownership and Wealth Growth

Interestingly, even in the face of widespread pessimism, 77% of homeowners maintain the belief that homeownership is one of the best methods to build personal wealth, and 60% consider home equity an essential source of financial security. As 2025 concludes, it is evident that high costs of living, interest rates, and financial stress continue to pressure homeowners, overshadowing their potential optimism.

This survey was completed by Atomik Research, a market research agency, and presents a comprehensive look at homeowners' attitudes towards their financial futures amid a climate of uncertainty. Unlock Technologies, established in 2020 and based in Tempe, Arizona, aims to aid homeowners by offering financing solutions that do not require monthly payments, seeking to ease the financial burden many currently face.