Homeowner Sentiments and Financial Challenges in 2026
Recent findings from a survey commissioned by Unlock, a firm specializing in home equity access, highlight current homeowner sentiments and financial challenges in the U.S. market. Conducted in January 2026, the survey involved 2,003 homeowners and revealed that a significant majority, 75%, are not planning to buy or sell property in the near future. While this suggests stability, the data also indicate potential financial challenges for homeowners.
The survey results show that many homeowners find their expenses to be higher than anticipated, with 65% reporting unexpected costs beyond their mortgage. This includes increased property taxes, which soared by 41% nationally between 2018 and 2025, according to the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, as well as rising insurance and maintenance expenses.
Faced with mounting costs, homeowners are making financial adjustments, sometimes at the expense of long-term goals. For instance, 22% of participants have reduced contributions to retirement savings, while 33% have postponed large purchases. The survey also found that nearly one-third of respondents have emergency funds below $1,000, with more than half experiencing significant stress due to daily financial pressures.
An additional 19% of homeowners would prefer extending their commute over incurring another monthly obligation, underscoring the strain imposed by existing financial commitments, including mortgages, insurance, and taxes.
In terms of home equity, approximately 50% of homeowners are unsure about the amount they have accumulated, reflecting a gap in financial knowledge and planning. Despite this uncertainty, most recognize the value of home equity as a financial safety net; 60% see it as a source of financial security, yet 48% consider it a resource to tap into only as a last resort, underlining reluctance to utilize this option except in dire circumstances.
The current situation leaves many homeowners in a state of financial caution, with reluctance to alter existing mortgage arrangements or utilize equity, largely to maintain low interest rates or avoid further financial burden. However, traditional pathways such as selling, refinancing, or tapping into home equity remain challenging options, prompting a reevaluation of their roles in financial planning.
The research was executed by Atomik Research, part of 4media group, maintaining a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. These findings provide insight into the economic dynamics facing U.S. homeowners and suggest a cautious, informed approach towards future financial decisions.