More Buyers Are Planning To Move in 2026. Here’s How To Get Ready
Momentum is quietly building in the housing market. New data from NerdWallet shows more Americans are starting to think about buying a home again. Last year, 15% of respondents said they planned to buy a home in the next 12 months. This year, that number rose to 17%.
That 2% increase might not sound like a big jump, but in a market where buyer demand has been cooling for the past few years, it’s a sign things are starting to shift. More people are feeling ready (or at least closer to ready) to take the leap and buy a home in 2026.
And if you’re in that camp and buying a home is on your goal sheet this year, this is your nudge to connect with a local agent and a trusted lender to start laying the groundwork now.
Planning To Move in Early 2026? Start with These 4 Steps
If you’re ready to move quickly, start with these steps:
Get pre-approved. A pre-approval clarifies your buying power and estimates your payment at current rates. Note that most pre-approvals last only 30–90 days, so only do this when you’re prepared to act.
Run the numbers. Itemize your expenses to set a realistic budget. Factor in existing bills and the likely monthly mortgage payment so you avoid overextending yourself.
Define your non-negotiables. Once the finances check out, list must-haves such as location, commute time, layout, school district, and lifestyle needs. Having these clear makes home comparisons and decisions easier.
Choose your agent early. Read reviews and interview several agents to find one you trust and get along with. A good agent does more than show homes—they advise on pricing, competition, timing, and strategy before you submit an offer.
Thinking about Buying Later in the Year? This Is Still Your Window To Prepare
Even if purchasing a home is a late-2026 goal, what you do now still counts. The buyers who feel most confident later are often those who prepared quietly beforehand. Preparation doesn’t require big financial moves or major life changes — just small steps that make it easier when the time comes. Try these low-stress ways to get ready:
Work on your credit. While you don’t need to have perfect credit to buy a home, your score can have an impact on your loan terms and even your mortgage rate. So, working to bring up your score has its perks. Paying down debt now and making payments on time can help bring your score up.
Automate your savings. If you have to remember to transfer money into your homebuying savings manually, you may forget to do it. So, you may want to set up automatic transfers to drive consistency and remove the temptation to spend the money elsewhere.
Lean into your side hustles: Do you have a gig you do (or have done before) to net some extra cash? Taking on part-time work, freelance jobs, or picking up a side hustle can help give your savings a boost.
Put any unexpected cash to good use: If you get any sudden windfalls, like a tax refund, bonus, inheritance, or cash gift from family, put it toward your house fund. You’ll thank yourself later.
Bottom Line
If buying a home in 2026 is on your radar, start the conversation now. Not to rush a decision, but to give yourself time and clarity. Because every move (whether it’s next year or later) is smoother when it starts with a plan. And if you need help coming up with one that works, connect with a trusted agent and lender.