If you’re planning to buy in 2026, here are 6 steps you can take today to set yourself up for success. These tips will help simplify the process, reduce stress, and give you confidence that you’re making the right moves toward your new home. Saving for a down payment is often the most challenging part of buying a home. While a 20% down payment is standard, there are other options to ease the financial burden, including government programs and borrowing from registered savings plans. Even small steps toward saving now can put you ahead when the right home comes along. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can give you a significant advantage. It demonstrates that you are financially ready and serious about buying. To increase your chances of a higher pre-approval amount, consider boosting your down payment, improving your credit score, reducing debt, or adding a co-borrower. Early preparation can make the difference when securing your ideal home. Your credit score affects both how much you can borrow and the interest rate you’ll receive. Paying bills on time, keeping your debt-to-income ratio low, and maintaining credit utilization below 30% are simple but effective ways to improve your credit. Even modest improvements can significantly impact your mortgage terms. Location is a major factor in home buying. Consider commute times, schools, public transit, local amenities, and future development plans. Researching crime rates, property values, and emerging neighborhoods can help you find a location that meets both your lifestyle and long-term goals. Once your priorities and location are set, start browsing listings to get a sense of what’s available. Regularly checking listings helps you understand market trends and spot opportunities early. Keep a running list of properties that meet your criteria and stay informed about new listings as they become available.