Unlock Insights

Your one-stop shop for the news of the day, personal finance, and home ownership tips.

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Enriching the Lives of Homeowners: Unlock Customer Data, Insights

A new Unlock survey shows our home equity agreements helped homeowners improve their finances and adopt healthier financial habits.

Is it Worth it to Do a No Spend Challenge?

Cutting all unnecessary spending for a sustained period of time can be a great way to save money. Just steer clear of splurging when you're done with the challenge.

How to Tap Home Equity with Bad Credit

Many homeowners have accumulated considerable equity in their homes. But for homeowners with bad credit, tapping that equity can difficult. We look at the options.

9 Ways to Start Saving More

Experts recommend saving 20% of your take-home pay and creating an emergency fund. If you're struggling to reach those goals, these tips could help.

How to Calculate Your Home Equity

Calculating the amount of your home equity is fairly easy, and it can be helpful to know just how much of your house you own outright. We explain how to do it and the options for accessing your equity.

Unlock Technologies Customer Success Story: Krista

Tight finances made it difficult for Krista to upgrade her historic home. Then she found Unlock. With a home equity agreement (HEA), she was able to pull cash out of her home to fund improvements.

Are the Costs of Home Improvements Tax-Deductible?

Home improvements can make your home more livable and valuable - but some may also save you money on your taxes. Learn more about which types of upgrades might qualify.

Should You Use Your 401K to Pay Off Debt?

Tapping your 401(k) plan to pay off debt can save you interest and improve your finances, but it also carries some pretty important consequences. We look at the pros and cons.

How to Tap Your Home Equity Without Selling Your Home

Homeowners have record home equity, but high mortgage rates are keeping many from selling those properties. Fortunately, there are ways to cash out that equity, including a no-loan home equity agreement (HEA).

Your Credit Utilization Ratio: What is It and How to Improve It

Having a healthy credit utilization rate can make you a more attractive candidate when it comes to applying for credit or borrowing money. We look at how to manage and improve your rate.

Understanding Your Home Equity Agreement (HEA) Obligations

Wondering what to expect once you have a home equity agreement (HEA)? Maintaining your property, and staying current with your mortgage and property taxes is key.

Tapping Your Home Equity When You’re Retired

If you're a retired homeowner thinking of accessing your home equity, you have options. We review the products available and how to decide which one is best for you.

2025 Economic Outlook: Homeowners Feeling the Pinch

More than half of U.S. homeowners are feeling uncertain or pessimistic about the economy, according to Unlock's first economic survey. Read more about how homeowners are viewing their finances, savings and expenses this year.