Housing Market Confidence Is Rising — Here’s How to Prepare to Buy in 2026
After a few quieter years, buyer interest in real estate is beginning to rebound. According to recent survey data from NerdWallet, more Americans are once again considering homeownership in the near future. In 2024, about 15% of people surveyed said they planned to purchase a home within the next year. That figure has climbed to 17% this year. While the increase may seem modest, it’s meaningful in a market that has seen buyer hesitation due to affordability challenges and higher mortgage rates.
This shift suggests something important: confidence is slowly returning. More buyers are starting to believe that owning a home in 2026 is realistic—and they’re beginning to take the first steps toward making it happen.
If that sounds like you, now is a smart time to start planning. You don’t need to rush into a purchase, but laying the groundwork early can put you in a much stronger position when the time comes.
Planning to Buy a Home in Early 2026? Start Here
If your goal is to move sooner rather than later, these foundational steps can help you get ahead of the curve.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage
A mortgage pre-approval helps you understand how much home you can afford and what your estimated monthly payment might look like. Keep in mind that most pre-approvals are valid for only 30 to 90 days, according to Experian, so this step is best taken when you’re close to starting your home search.
Build a realistic budget
Take a detailed look at your finances, including current bills, savings, and lifestyle expenses. Understanding how a mortgage payment fits into your monthly budget can help you avoid overextending yourself and reduce stress down the road.
Clarify your must-haves
Before browsing listings, get clear on what truly matters to you. Think about location, commute time, home layout, school districts, and lifestyle needs. Knowing your non-negotiables early will make decisions faster and more confident later.
Get in touch with me
Getting in touch early gives you an advantage. Knowing sooner than later about what your goals are will help me, help you. I can guide you on pricing, competition, timing, and strategy long before you submit an offer.
Buying Later in 2026? You Can Still Prepare Now
Even if purchasing a home feels like a long-term goal, the preparation you do today can make a big difference later. The most confident buyers are often the ones who planned quietly and consistently. Here are a few simple, low-pressure ways to prepare:
Strengthen your credit profile
You don’t need perfect credit to buy a home, but a higher score can improve your loan options and interest rate. Paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debt can help boost your score over time.
Make saving automatic
Setting up automatic transfers to your home savings account can help you stay consistent. It also removes the temptation to spend money that’s meant for your future purchase.
Increase income where possible
Side gigs, freelance work, or part-time opportunities can add up. Even temporary extra income can give your down payment or emergency fund a helpful boost.
Use windfalls wisely
Unexpected money such as a tax refund, bonus, or gift can make a meaningful impact if you direct it toward your home-buying fund instead of everyday spending.
Whether you plan to buy in early 2026 or later in the year, preparation gives you clarity and flexibility. When you understand your finances, priorities, and options, you’re better equipped to move confidently when the right opportunity appears. Need help getting started? Contact me today and let’s talk!