Owning a slice of real estate is becoming increasingly far-fetched for many Americans today. Yet emerging support for
For Gen Z workers in particular, financial stability is top of mind, and homeownership remains a key milestone. Yet rising housing costs, high interest rates and low savings are making that benchmark increasingly difficult to achieve.
Today, nearly 43% of employees live paycheck to paycheck, and almost one-third have less than $1,000 in savings, according to data from Multiply Mortgage, a mortgage solution platform. For Gen Z, who are still early in their careers and often
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These challenges bleed into employees' personal and professional lives: Two-thirds of employees say that the stress of buying a home negatively affects their productivity at work, and over one-third admit to spending more than four hours a week distracted by housing concerns. For employers, this presents a unique opportunity to support younger generations within the workforce in a deeply meaningful way.
"Gen Z is redefining the employee-employer relationship," says Michael White, CEO of Multiply Mortgage. "They're not afraid to ask for what they need, and they view benefits as a reflection of a company's values. For them, a paycheck isn't enough. They're looking for companies that help them thrive in all aspects of life, including their financial future."
What Gen Z wants from mortgage benefits
Gen Z workers are looking for practical, personalized support that goes beyond
"A mortgage benefit helps employees get better rates, avoid costly mistakes, and receive trusted guidance," White says. "That's real financial value — not just in the short-term, but in the long run."
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Educational resources are also high on the wish list. One in three employees rate homebuying education as a top priority, highlighting a need for tools that demystify the process and offer step-by-step guidance. With many Gen Z workers relying on social media or friends for mortgage advice, employers have an opportunity to fill that gap with trusted, expert-backed solutions.
"Once someone goes through the homebuying process with the right support, they're better equipped to make future financial decisions with confidence," White says. "In today's market, where affordability is a challenge, this kind of support doesn't go unnoticed. It builds loyalty and sets companies apart as thoughtful, forward-looking employers."
A strategic advantage for employers
Mortgage benefits aren't just about helping employees buy homes — they're also a powerful recruitment and retention tool. The Multiply Mortgage survey found that 75% of employees would be more likely to join a company that offers mortgage benefits, and 23% say these benefits could be a deciding
The impact doesn't stop at hiring. A third of employees say mortgage benefits significantly improve their job satisfaction, and nearly 35% say they strengthen loyalty to their employer. More than a third also say they'd be more likely to recommend their company to others if mortgage support were offered — an indicator of deeper employee engagement and loyalty.
"It's a powerful message: We see your whole financial picture, and we're here to help you build long-term stability and wealth," White says. "That can translate into stronger engagement, retention, and advocacy from a group that's just beginning their careers."
