Are You Ready to Buy a Home?
Washington, D.C., June 1, 2026 – A new Wells Fargo poll, conducted by Ipsos, found that most surveyed prospective home-buyers ages 18-65 have limited knowledge of the housing market. Of 12 comprehension questions about the housing market, only around 2% of quiz participants got a passing grade of 8 questions correct or more.
Seventy percent of these prospective home-buyers viewed themselves as knowledgeable about the housing market prior to taking the quiz.
Only a quarter of surveyed quiz participants knew the correct timing on when to apply for a mortgage, and nearly 9 in 10 (88%) were unsure of the first steps to take when beginning the home buying process.
Despite relatively low scores, reactions to the quiz were generally positive. Nearly two-thirds of participants (62%) said it left them feeling motivated, encouraged, or more aware of what they still need to learn.
About the Study
This Wells Fargo survey was conducted by Ipsos from March 5th to March 13th, 2026, in English, using an opt-in online sample. This quiz was conducted among 2,012 aspiring first-time home-buyers between the ages of 18-65, who had already taken some steps towards the purchase of a home, such as began considering purchase or describing themselves as relatively financially prepared. No weights were applied to the survey, and findings reflect the opinion of these respondents only.
For more information on this news release, please contact:
Svetlana Gitelzon
Vice President, US
MSU
[email protected]
About Ipsos
Ipsos is one of the largest market research and polling companies globally, operating in 90 markets and employing nearly 20,000 people.
Our passionately curious research professionals, analysts and scientists have built unique multi-specialist capabilities that provide true understanding and powerful insights into the actions, opinions and motivations of citizens, consumers, patients, customers or employees. Our 75 business solutions are based on primary data from our surveys, social media monitoring, and qualitative or observational techniques.
“Game Changers” – our tagline – summarizes our ambition to help our 5,000 clients navigate with confidence our rapidly changing world.
Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has been listed on the Euronext Paris since July 1, 1999. The company is part of the SBF 120, Mid-60 indices, and is eligible for the Deferred Settlement Service (SRD).
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