What Homebuyers and Sellers Should Focus on in 2026

We finally made it to 2026, and like many of you, I’ve been thinking about my New Year’s resolutions. I’m trying something different this year.

This year, my resolution is to stay focused on my health without the constant reminders that make it feel harder than it needs to be. I switched to a simple Hume band instead of a smartwatch. It does not buzz, track every minute, or tell me all day what I am not getting done. It keeps me aware without distracting me, and that is exactly what I need to stay consistent.

Now let’s talk about your resolutions, especially the real estate ones.

For buyers: Are you still considering buying, or have you acted on it? I know many of you are tired of renting. Last year, we talked about buying. Maybe you planned to start a family, get married, or finally have a place of your own. The bigger question is this:

Have you done anything about it yet?

Right now, conditions are shifting. Interest rates have come down a bit. Home prices have adjusted in many areas. That makes this a time to get serious, not just think about it.

If you tend to overthink instead of act, you are not alone. But just like with my health goals, paying attention and taking small steps matters. And I am here to help you do that.

Let’s focus on getting you started, whether that means buying the home you dream about or simply understanding what your first step should be.

For sellers: Turning plans into reality. Maybe you are thinking about downsizing. Maybe you want to move closer to your family. Maybe warmer weather is calling your name. Or maybe you want to cash in, stay local, and move into a different home that fits your life better.

These are common goals. They are also easy to delay if you do not put a plan behind them. 2026 can be a successful year if you decide to move from ideas to action.

Here’s how I can initially help: If buying or selling a home is part of your resolution this year, I have a buyer step-by-step book and a seller guide available. They are designed to help you think through the process in a clear, practical way.

All you need to do is send me a text or drop a message that says “resolution” and let me know if you are a buyer or a seller. Reach out to me at (607) 795-2904 or vickischamel@kw.com, and I will send the right book to you.

Resolutions often start strong in January and fade by spring. Let’s change that this year.