🏡 New Year, New Home? 5 Resolutions Every 2026 Buyer Should Make

By Simon Royer | RE/MAX Icon Realty

If buying a house in 2026 is on your vision board, don’t just hope it happens — make it your mission. The Ontario real estate market isn’t as wild as it was a few years ago, but it still rewards the buyers who are prepared, strategic, and proactive.

So instead of just resolving to hit the gym or eat more veggies, let’s talk about five real estate resolutions that will actually move your life forward this year.

🎯 Resolution #1: Know Your Numbers

Before you browse listings or fall in love with kitchen islands, understand your financial picture.

• ✅ Get pre-approved for a mortgage (not just pre-qualified)

• 🧾 Understand your total monthly affordability — not just the sticker price

• 💳 Check your credit score and improve it if needed

• 💰 Open or contribute to a First Home Savings Account (FHSA) if you're a first-time buyer — it’s a game-changer

Being financially dialed-in turns you from “browser” to “buyer” — and gives you leverage when the right home hits the market.

📅 Resolution #2: Build a Realistic Timeline

A smooth move starts months before you pick up the keys.

• Want to move this summer? You should start shopping by March or April

• Most home purchases take 60–90 days to close, and that’s after you’ve found the place

• Factor in lease ends, school years, and time for inspections or financing delays

🧠 Planning ahead keeps you from scrambling later — and might save you thousands in the process.

🧰 Resolution #3: Assemble Your Team Early

Real estate is a team sport. Start assembling your pros now:

• A local REALTOR® who understands your goals and the market

• A solid mortgage broker or lender who explains more than just rates

• A real estate lawyer and home inspector you trust

✅ Pro tip: The right team will educate you, not just “handle things.” That’s how you stay in control of your move.

📚 Resolution #4: Learn the Market (Not Just the Headlines)

Skip the hype. Understand the real factors that will shape your buying experience in 2026:

• Interest rates may shift — but your personal affordability matters more

• Inventory and pricing will vary by property type, not just region

• Be ready for a balanced market — buyers still need to move with intent

If you're watching market trends, watch them with purpose: what kind of home fits your needs, and how do typical homes in your budget perform over time?

💬 Resolution #5: Stay Ready — Not Reactive

The best buyers in 2026 will be the ones who:

• Set a budget and stick to it

• Have their documents and pre-approval ready

• Know what matters most in a home (location, layout, features)

You don’t have to rush. But when the right home shows up, you’ll be ready to act — not overthink.

👋 Simon’s Final Word

Buying a home isn’t just a transaction — it’s a life move.
And like any goal worth chasing, it needs a plan, not just a Pinterest board.

If one of your 2026 resolutions is “buy a house” — let’s turn it into a step-by-step roadmap.

🎯 No pressure. No guesswork. Just a game plan that gets results.

👉 Book Your 2026 Buyer Planning Call and let’s get you one step closer to that “just bought” feeling.