Goal Setting for a Move: Why You Shouldn’t Sit on the Sidelines in 2026
- Angela Holt Realtor
- Jan 2
- 3 min read
Buying a home doesn’t always happen on a neat timeline. Sometimes you’re waiting to sell, watching the market, recovering from a life shift, or simply not quite ready to make a move yet.
But here’s the truth I share with clients all the time:
Even if a home move in 2026 is a “maybe,” you shouldn’t be standing still.
The buyers (and sellers) who feel calm and confident when the right home shows up aren’t scrambling — they’ve been preparing quietly behind the scenes.
Whether you’re chasing a long-term dream, testing the waters, or waiting for the timing to feel right, here’s how to stay in motion without forcing a decision.
Step 1: Define the Why Before the When
Before spreadsheets, budgets, or listings — start with clarity.
Ask yourself:
Why do I want to move?
What isn’t working in my current home or location?
What does “better” actually look like for my daily life?
This could be more space, less maintenance, proximity to family, room for animals, a home office, or a fresh start altogether.
💡 Clarity creates direction. Direction creates confidence.
Step 2: Create a Flexible Home Vision (Not a Rigid Wishlist)
Instead of a long, rigid “must-have” list, think in non-negotiables vs. preferences.
Non-negotiables might include:
School districts
Commute time
Lot size or layout needs
Accessibility or future-proofing
Preferences might include:
Design style
Renovation potential
Bonus rooms or outdoor features
Your vision should guide you — not box you in.
Step 3: Get Financially Curious (Not Fearful)
You don’t need to be “ready-ready” to start learning.
Smart early steps:
Check your credit (and understand what improves it)
Start tracking spending patterns
Build or replenish savings intentionally
Talk to a lender for information, not commitment
This step alone removes so much anxiety later.
Step 4: If You’ll Need to Sell, Start Prepping Now
Even if selling feels far off, your future self will thank you for starting early.
Things to do now:
Knock out small repairs and deferred maintenance
Declutter with intention (not panic)
Make a running list of updates you don’t want to do last-minute
Begin viewing your home as a marketable asset, not just a space you live in
Preparation buys you leverage.
Step 5: Watch the Market Like a Student, Not a Spectator
You don’t need to tour every home — but you should be learning.
Pay attention to:
Price reductions
Days on market
What homes sell quickly vs. what lingers
Which features consistently add value
This helps you spot opportunity instead of reacting emotionally later.
Step 6: Build Your “Quiet Team”
You don’t need a loud announcement — just the right people.
That might include:
A trusted real estate advisor
A lender who educates (not pressures)
Contractors, inspectors, or organizers you trust
Family decision-makers aligned on goals
The earlier this team is in place, the smoother everything feels when it’s go-time.
Step 7: Keep the Door Open — Without Living in Limbo
You can prepare and live your life.
Goal setting isn’t about rushing — it’s about being ready when:
The right home appears
The timing shifts
Life nudges you forward faster than expected
Momentum doesn’t mean commitment. It means options.
Final Thought
If buying or selling a home in 2026 might land on your vision board — don’t sit on the sidelines waiting for certainty.
The most successful moves happen when preparation meets opportunity.
And when you’re ready to talk through what your next step looks like — I’m always happy to help you map it out.
Real Estate with Heart.
Angela Holt, DFW Realtor