Why Buyer Interest Is Picking Up for 2026 & How to Position Yourself Now

The housing market is beginning to show quiet but meaningful momentum, and buyer interest 2026 is steadily increasing. According to recent data from NerdWallet, more Americans are once again considering homeownership. Last year, 15% of people surveyed said they planned to buy a home within the next 12 months. This year, that number rose to 17%.

While a 2% rise may seem small, in a market that’s seen buyer hesitation for several years, it signals a shift. Confidence is slowly rebuilding, and more buyers are moving from “someday” thinking to actual planning, especially for a 2026 purchase.

If buying a home is on your radar this year, now is the time to start laying the groundwork so you’re prepared when the right opportunity comes along.

Planning a Move in Early 2026? Start Here

If you’re hoping to make a move sooner rather than later, these steps will help you get organized and confident early on:

Get pre-approved.A pre-approval gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and what your payment might look like at today’s rates. Just remember, most pre-approvals are typically valid for only 30–90 days, so timing matters.

Review your budget carefully.Take an honest look at your monthly expenses and how a mortgage payment would fit into your lifestyle. Knowing your comfort zone upfront helps prevent overextending later.

Clarify your must-haves.Once the numbers make sense, define what matters most: location, layout, commute, schools, lifestyle needs, and more. Having this clarity now simplifies decisions when you start touring homes.

Bring in the right guidance early.An experienced real estate professional does far more than unlock doors. They help you understand pricing, competition, timing, and strategy well before you write an offer.

Buying Later in 2026? Preparation Still Pays Off

Even if your timeline is toward the end of the year, starting early gives you an advantage. Buyers who feel the most confident when it’s time to act are usually the ones who prepared quietly ahead of time.

Here are a few low-pressure ways to get ready:

• Strengthen your credit. Small improvements can positively impact your loan options and interest rate.

• Automate your savings. Automatic transfers make consistency easy and remove the temptation to spend elsewhere.

• Leverage extra income. Side work, freelance projects, or part-time income can give your home fund a helpful boost.

• Use unexpected money wisely. Tax refunds, bonuses, or gifts can make a meaningful difference when applied to your future purchase.

The common thread? Thoughtful preparation makes everything smoother.

Bottom Line

If buying a home in 2026 is something you’re considering, start the conversation now, not to rush, but to gain clarity and confidence. Every successful move begins with a plan.

For guidance tailored to your goals and your local market, reach out to me, Teresa Hill. Whether you’re buying early, later, or just starting to explore your options, I can help you build a smart, realistic strategy that works for you.

*Information sourced from Nerd Wallet, NAR, Realtor.com, & Keeping Current Matters