At a glance: The new year is the perfect time for action. If your goal for 2026 is to buy or sell a home, this article provides a clear, flexible framework of steps to build momentum and achieve a successful outcome at your own pace.

Happy New Year, and welcome to 2026! The start of a new year brings a unique feeling of a blank page and endless possibility. For many of us, that includes making big, exciting changes, like finding a home that truly fits our goals.

An ambition like "buy a new house" or "sell our property" can feel huge and overwhelming. But you can achieve any big goal by breaking it down into a logical sequence of steps. This is not a rigid timeline; it is a flexible framework. A motivated person can work through these phases quickly, while a careful planner can take their time. The key is to follow the process.

A Flexible Framework for Success

Choose the plan that fits your goal and let’s get started.

The Seller's Action Plan

Phase 1: The Foundation
This first phase is about creating a strong, clear starting point.

  • Settlement figure from your bank: If you know there is still a loan on your property, get a settlement figure from your bank and let them know you need the settlement figure with the intention to sell your property. 

  • Get a Data-Backed Valuation: Next step is to get a qualified property valuer who is listed on the bank’s panels and who can provide an honest opinion of what your home is worth in the current market. This number will inform your entire plan!

  • Declutter & Depersonalize: Start the process of emotionally and physically preparing the house. A tidy, impersonal space is far more appealing to buyers.

Phase 2: The Preparation
This phase is about enhancing your property's value and preventing future problems.

  • Tackle Small Repairs: Fix the leaky tap, replace the broken tile, and touch up the paint. Small fixes make a huge difference in perceived value.

  • Begin the Compliance Check: Get a head start on ensuring your property’s building plans are in order with the municipality. This prevents major delays later.

Phase 3: The Launch
This is the final phase where preparation meets the market.

  • Professional Photography & Staging:  Make sure you choose a Real Estate Agent who you can trust to market your property professionally.  Make sure the Real Estate Agent is qualified and check out their facebook page or website and ask how they usually market a property for sale. 

  • List and Go to Market: With all the prep work done, you can confidently launch your property to attract the best, most qualified buyers.

The Buyer's Action Plan

Phase 1: Financial Preparation
This phase is about getting your finances in order so you can act with confidence.

  • Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan: This is the most important first step. It tells you exactly what your budget is and shows sellers that you are a serious, qualified buyer. Make sure you understand your pre-approval from your bank!

  • Finalize Your Budget: Account for transfer costs, legal fees, and moving expenses so there are no surprises.

Phase 2: The Search
This phase is about turning your dream into a defined set of criteria.

  • Define Your Needs vs. Wants: Make a clear list of your non-negotiables (e.g., three bedrooms) and your nice-to-haves (e.g., a swimming pool).

  • Research Neighborhoods: Spend weekends driving through areas you are considering. Get a feel for the community, commute times, and local amenities.

Phase 3: The Hunt
In this final phase, you actively engage with the market.

  • Start Viewing Properties: With your budget and needs clearly defined, you can now look at homes with focus and purpose.

  • Prepare to Make an Offer: When you find the right home, you will be in a strong, prepared position to make a confident offer.

From an Idea to an Achievement

An overwhelming goal is now a clear process. Whether you're aiming for a swift move in the next month or planning a careful transition over the next quarter, following these steps will build incredible momentum. You will move from a feeling of being stuck to a feeling of being in control of your future.

The year is new and full of potential. Let’s not let your property goals remain a dream. Let's make them your success story of 2026.

This article was written by Tatjana Rapp, the principal real estate agent at Tatjana Rapp Real Estate. The first step in any great plan is a simple conversation. Contact me today to start your journey and turn your property goals into a reality.