Thinking About Buying in 2026? Here’s How to Prepare

Quietly, the housing market is starting to pick up. New information from NerdWallet shows more people are thinking about buying a home again. Last year, about 15% of people said they planned to buy within the next year. This year, that number has grown to 17%.

A 2% increase may seem small, but after a few slow years, it’s a sign that interest is returning. More buyers are beginning to feel ready—or at least closer to ready—to make a move in 2026.

If buying a home is one of your goals, now is a good time to start talking with a local real estate broker and a trusted lender. Getting early guidance can make the process much smoother later on.

Planning to Move in Early 2026? Start Here

If you’re ready to take the first steps, focus on these four things:

• Get pre-approved.
  A pre-approval helps you understand how much you can afford and what your monthly payment may look like. Just remember, most pre-approvals are only valid for 30 to 90 days, so this step works best when you’re getting serious.
  
  

• Review your budget.
  Take a close look at your monthly expenses. Think about your current bills and how a mortgage payment would fit in. This helps you avoid stretching yourself too thin.
  
  

• Decide what matters most.
  Once the numbers make sense, list your must-haves. This could include location, commute, home layout, schools, or lifestyle needs. Knowing this early makes home shopping much easier.
  
  

• Pick an broker you trust.
  Read reviews, ask questions, and speak with a few brokers before choosing one. A good broker does more than show houses—they guide you on pricing, competition, timing, and next steps.

Buying Later in 2026? Now Is Still the Time to Prepare

Even if you’re planning to buy toward the end of the year, starting now can make a big difference. Buyers who feel confident later are often the ones who prepared ahead of time.

You don’t need to make big changes right away. Small, steady steps can go a long way:

• Improve your credit.
  You don’t need perfect credit, but a higher score can help you get better loan terms. Paying down debt and making on-time payments can help raise your score over time.
  
  

• Set up automatic savings.
  Automatic transfers to your savings account help you stay consistent and avoid spending money meant for your future home.
  
  

• Add extra income when you can.
  Side jobs, freelance work, or part-time gigs can give your savings a boost—even if you only do them for a short time.
  
  

• Use extra money wisely.
  If you receive unexpected funds, like a tax refund or bonus, consider putting it toward your home savings.

The main takeaway? Good preparation makes a real difference.

Bottom Line....

If buying a home in 2026 is on your mind, now is the time to start the conversation—not to rush, but to plan.

Every move is easier when you have a clear plan in place. And when you’re ready, a trusted broker and lender can help guide you every step of the way.