U.S. consumers’ view of economic conditions continued to erode in July, making for a third straight month of softened sentiment on their present situations.

The Conference Board’s monthly survey showed reduced overall consumer confidence, though it found the average intent to buy homes and cars kept rising.

The nonprofit business research and membership group’s Consumer Confidence Index fell nearly 1½ points to 90.8, and its Present Situation Index of current business and labor market conditions fell nearly four points to 115 for a third straight down month.

Meanwhile, the board’s Expectations Index measuring short-term outlook of income, business and labor conditions was flat at about 75.

Consumer views appeared mixed when taking the three indexes into account.

“Looking ahead, consumers anticipate little improvement in business conditions over the next six months, but expectations for the labor market were slightly less negative,” said Chief Economist Dana M. Peterson. “Expectations for household incomes moderated but remained optimistic overall.”

Views varied based on demographics, the youngest generations of consumers, higher earners and Republicans expressing more confidence than others.

Survey respondents’ write-in responses in preliminary results gathered on July 22 referred to high food and gas prices and jobs and unemployment concerns. References to war had eased, though resumed fighting late in the month could factor more in revised data, the board reported.

The survey results showing increased car- and home-buying expectations on a six-month moving average basis didn’t specify if automotive purchase plans skewed toward used or new cars.