New Year, New Goals: Is This the Year You Buy or Sell?

New Year, New Goals: Is This the Year You Buy or Sell?

The start of a new year often brings fresh perspectives and renewed motivation. It’s a time when many people reassess their priorities, set goals, and think about what the next chapter should look like. For some, that includes a real estate move—whether buying a first home, upgrading to accommodate a growing family, downsizing, or selling to take advantage of built-up equity.

If buying or selling is on your mind in 2026, the key is not just deciding if you’ll move, but how you’ll prepare to make that move successfully.

Begin With Smart Financial Planning

Strong financial preparation is the cornerstone of a successful real estate experience, regardless of market conditions.

For buyers, early planning can make all the difference. Reviewing your credit profile, paying down debt, and building savings for a down payment and closing costs can open more options when the right home becomes available. A mortgage pre-approval not only clarifies your budget but also strengthens your position when making an offer in a competitive market.

Sellers benefit from financial planning as well. Understanding your home’s current value, estimating net proceeds, and factoring in the costs of selling and moving can help you determine the right timing and next steps. For those planning to buy again, aligning the sale of your current home with your future purchase is an important part of the strategy.

Timing the Market vs. Timing Your Life

One of the most common questions buyers and sellers ask is whether now is the “right” time to move. While interest rates, inventory, and seasonal trends are important, personal timing often carries more weight than trying to predict the market.

Buyers should consider how long they plan to stay in their next home, how a move fits into career or family plans, and whether current market conditions support their comfort level. Sellers may want to think about when their home will show its best, how local inventory compares to demand, and what opportunities may follow the sale.

A clear, personalized strategy—rather than waiting for perfect conditions—often leads to better outcomes.

What to Watch in the 2026 Real Estate Market

As the new year unfolds, staying informed about market trends can help you make confident decisions. In 2026, buyers and sellers alike should pay attention to:

• Mortgage rate trends and affordability changes

• Shifts in inventory levels and buyer competition

• Local pricing trends, which can vary widely by neighborhood

Understanding how national trends intersect with your local market is essential. A knowledgeable local agent can help interpret the data and explain what it means for your specific goals.

Turning Goals Into Action

Setting a real estate goal is just the first step. Turning that goal into reality requires preparation, guidance, and a clear plan. Whether you’re actively planning a move this year or simply laying the groundwork for the future, taking early steps can reduce stress and create better opportunities when the time is right.

At Coldwell Banker Hearthside, our agents are committed to helping clients navigate every stage of the real estate journey. From planning and market insights to negotiation and closing, we’re here to support your goals every step of the way.

If buying or selling is on your list for 2026, now is the perfect time to start the conversation and create a plan built around your needs.