If homeownership is on your 2026 resolution list, then now is the perfect time to start strategizing how you can make this goal reality. January brings a lot of clarity for many, and reviewing finances is often where a lot of people start. If you know exactly where your finances stand, you’re ready to decide whether purchasing a home is the right move for you in this season.

Here are some signs that you may be ready to buy this year:

Financial Readiness

You have stable income, manageable debt, you make your payments on time, and you have money set aside for a down payment.

Credit Readiness

You know where your credit score stands and how to improve it.

Lifestyle Readiness

You have career stability, your family is growing, and you no longer need flexibility that comes with renting since you’re ready for long-term stability.

There are several advantages to planning homeownership early. You have time to examine your credit strategy, savings goals, and timing of when you’d like to buy. If you’ve decided 2026 is the right time for you to buy, now is a great time to start speaking with a lender before the start of spring housing market competition. This way, you can ease yourself into the idea of homeownership without feeling rushed to immediately make a decision. The earlier you start planning, the more prepared you are before finding your dream home.

A mortgage consultation can help you discover many things you may not be aware of. For example, your lender will go over all of your loan options with you, some of which you may not have even known existed. They’ll also help you find any down payment assistance or special programs you may qualify for. Your lender will help you understand what you can afford in a monthly payment so that you know what range of home prices you’re in the market for.

Some action steps you can take today to stay ahead of the curve:

1. Review your budget
2. Check your credit
3. Schedule a consultation with a Legacy loan officer

Remember throughout your homebuying journey that homeownership doesn’t have a deadline. You may have a vision of when you want to own a home, but no one is requiring that of you. This is great news – it means you can go at your own pace! Whether you’re ready to buy this spring or buying in 2026 begins to feel too ambitious, getting started now only puts you ahead! Getting connected with one of our trusted loan officers can help turn that “maybe someday” into an action plan with a clear strategy. Find a loan officer near you and get started today!