Here’s something interesting I came across recently.
A survey found that the number of people planning to buy a home in the next year went up — from 15% to 17%. That might not sound like a huge jump, but it tells me something important:
People are starting to feel more confident about buying again.
Why the Shift?
After a couple of rough years with high rates and crazy competition, buyers are finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. Rates have come down a bit. There are more homes on the market. And people are tired of waiting.
If you want a deeper look at all the market trends shaping 2026, check out my full analysis: The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner.
I get it. At some point, you have to stop sitting on the sidelines and make a move. Life doesn’t wait — kids get older, jobs change, families grow.
Are You One of Those Buyers?
If you’ve been thinking about buying but haven’t taken the first step yet, here’s what I’d suggest:
Check your credit score. You don’t need perfect credit to buy a home, but knowing where you stand helps. If there are issues, you’ll have time to fix them.
Talk to a lender. Get pre-approved so you know what you can actually afford. This isn’t committing to anything — it’s just getting the information you need.
Start looking — casually. Browse listings online. Drive through neighborhoods you’re curious about. Get a feel for what’s out there in your price range.
Figure out your “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves.” Do you need a certain school district? A garage? A yard? Knowing your priorities makes the search easier.
Don’t Wait Until You’re “Ready”
Here’s the thing — nobody ever feels 100% ready to buy a home. There’s always a reason to wait. But the people who actually get into homes are the ones who start preparing early and jump when the right opportunity comes along.
If 2026 is your year, start laying the groundwork now.
Want help figuring out your next steps?
Call or text me: (516) 250-4891
Carolyn A. Best Licensed Real Estate Agent | EXIT Realty Premier
Serving Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens & Brooklyn
