01/03/2026
5 things you can take action on today if you want to buy a home in 2026!
1) Check & Improve Your Credit
Your credit score is one of the biggest factors lenders use to determine your mortgage rate.
* Pull your credit reports�(AnnualCreditReport.com offers free yearly reports from the 3 bureaus).
* Look for errors and dispute anything inaccurate.
* Pay down high-interest debt and keep credit card balances low (ideally ≤30% of your limit).
* Avoid new large debts or opening/closing accounts close to applying.
* Improving credit now can reduce the interest rate you qualify for later.
2) Build a Solid Down Payment Fund
Start saving consistently so you have the appropriate funds for a down payment. Keep in mind, what you actually need for a down payment may be significantly less than what you think you might need.
Steps to get started:
* Set up a separate savings account just for your home fund.
* Automate transfers (e.g., every paycheck → savings).
* Consider high-yield savings accounts or short-term CDs to grow your balance safely.
Even saving a small amount now adds up over 1-2 years.
3) Track & Improve Your Budget
Understanding your cash flow helps you know what you can afford and where to cut back.
* List all income vs. expenses.
* Use budgeting tools (apps, spreadsheets).
* Aim to reduce discretionary spending and increase savings.
* We have even had some clients put what they’d like their monthly mortgage to be in a savings account each month to get comfortable with their new budget. Plus this could help you build that savings for your down payment!
This also prepares you for mortgage qualification requirements (DT| - debt-to-income ratio).
4) Research Mortgage Options & Get
Pre-Approved
Understanding the mortgage landscape will help you plan.
* Learn about different loan types (conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, etc.).
* Research current interest rates (keep in mind they change).
* Reach out to lenders early to ask what they look at for qualifying.
* Pre-approval isn't necessary this far in advance, but starting a conversation helps you set targets.
This also helps you identify what you may need to improve (income, credit, savings).
5) Explore the Housing Market & Your Desires Target Area
Market research gives you realistic price expectations and timing.
* Identify areas/neighborhoods you're interested in.
* Track home prices & trends (Zillow, local MLS, etc.).
* Visit open houses (even now) to learn what features matter most to you.
* Consider your commute, schools, amenities, taxes, and future development.
This gives you local market insight so you know when the time comes.
Bonus: Call Double Play Property Team
It is never too early to begin discussing your real estate goal with us! Getting expert feedback and advice can save on mistakes later.
* We can help with all the things listed above AND MORE!
* We can help outline local market nuances and what buyers are doing now.
* Don’t make it harder on yourself! We have helped others through the process hundreds of times and have the tools and experience to help guide you in these early stages of the home buying process.
