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Something interesting is happening in the housing market—and it’s quiet, but powerful.

More buyers are starting to raise their hands again.

According to new data from NerdWallet, 17% of Americans now say they plan to buy a home within the next year, up from 15% last year. That may sound small, but in a market that’s been stuck in neutral, it’s a clear sign of momentum.

Think of it like traffic at a green light. The first few cars easing forward don’t make noise—but once they move, everyone follows.

If buying a home in 2026 is even loosely on your vision board, now is your moment to get prepared—without pressure, panic, or rushing into anything.

Planning to Move in Early 2026? Start With These 4 Smart Moves

If you’re feeling motivated and want to be proactive, here’s where confident buyers start:

1. Get Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified)

Pre-approval shows what you can actually afford—not what a random calculator thinks you should. It also makes you stronger when it’s time to write an offer. Just remember: most pre-approvals are only valid for 30–90 days, so timing matters.

2. Run the Numbers—Honestly

This is where clarity lives. Look at your current bills, lifestyle expenses, and savings goals. Then compare that to a realistic monthly mortgage payment. The goal isn’t to max yourself out—it’s to buy smart and sleep well at night.

3. Lock In Your Non-Negotiables

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect vision—just clarity. Location, commute, layout, schools, lifestyle. When you know your “must-haves,” decision fatigue disappears once the real homes start popping up.

4. Choose Your Agent Early

This part matters more than most people realize. The right agent doesn’t just unlock doors—they help you understand pricing trends, competition, timing, and strategy before emotions get involved. Read reviews. Ask questions. Trust your gut.

Buying Later in 2026? You’re Not Late—You’re Early

Even if your move is months away, preparation is still your secret weapon.

The most confident buyers don’t scramble at the last minute. They quietly set themselves up ahead of time. Here’s how to do that without stress:

Boost Your Credit (Little Wins Add Up)

You don’t need perfect credit—but better credit can mean better loan terms and lower payments. Paying down balances and making on-time payments now can pay off in a big way later.

Automate Your Savings

If saving depends on willpower, it’s hit or miss. Automation removes friction. Set it once, forget it, and let consistency do the heavy lifting.

Lean Into a Side Hustle

Extra income doesn’t have to be forever. Freelance work, part-time gigs, or short-term side hustles can seriously accelerate your home fund.

Use Windfalls Wisely

Tax refunds, bonuses, gifts—future you will be grateful if today you funnels that money straight into your home-buying stash.

The theme here is simple: small moves now = big confidence later.

Bottom Line: The Best Time to Prepare Is Before Everyone Else Does

If buying a home in 2026 is on your radar, this isn’t about rushing—it’s about readiness.

When you plan ahead, you buy smarter, negotiate stronger, and avoid the stress that catches most buyers off guard.

Let’s build a plan that fits your timeline and goals.

📲 Call or text us at 855-935-MORE and let’s start the conversation.