More buyers are starting to plan their next move for 2026, and that momentum is slowly building again. And if you live in or are planning to move to the Chicago area, this shift matters more than you might think.
New data shows more people are feeling ready to buy, or at least closer to being ready. In a market that’s been quieter over the past few years, even a small increase in buyer interest is a sign confidence is returning. For Chicago buyers, that means competition could slowly start picking up, and preparation now can give you a real advantage later.
So if buying a home in Chicago is on your 2026 goal list, this is the perfect time to start laying the groundwork before the market fully heats up.
Planning To Move in Early 2026? Start with These 4 Steps
If you’re eager to get the ball rolling right away, here’s what to tackle first:
- Get pre-approved. A pre-approval gives you a real understanding of your buying power and what your payment could be at today’s rates. But keep in mind, Experian says most pre-approvals are only good for 30-90 days, so this step makes the most sense as you’re ready to get serious.
- Run the numbers. Look closely at all your expenses to come up with your budget. Consider what you’re spending on other bills and what your monthly mortgage payment would be once you buy. That way you go in with open eyes and you don’t stretch too far.
- Define your non-negotiables. Once you know the numbers work, figure out your must-haves. This includes your desired location, commute, layout, school district, lifestyle needs, etc. Getting clear on these now makes decisions easier once you start looking at homes.
- Choose your agent early. Look at reviews online and talk to multiple agents to find one you trust that you also click with. The right agent does more than show homes. They help you understand pricing, competition, timing, and strategy before you ever write an offer.
Thinking about Buying Later in the Year? This Is Still Your Window To Prepare
Even if buying feels like a late-2026 goal, this moment still matters. The buyers who feel the most confident later are usually the ones who quietly prepared earlier.
That doesn’t mean big financial commitments or major lifestyle changes. It just means setting yourself up so you’re ready when the timing is right. Here are a few low-stress ways to do that:
- Work on your credit. While you don’t need to have perfect credit to buy a home, your score can have an impact on your loan terms and even your mortgage rate. So, working to bring up your score has its perks. Paying down debt now and making payments on time can help bring your score up.
- Automate your savings. If you have to remember to transfer money into your homebuying savings manually, you may forget to do it. So, you may want to set up automatic transfers to drive consistency and remove the temptation to spend the money elsewhere.
- Lean into your side hustles: Do you have a gig you do (or have done before) to net some extra cash? Taking on part-time work, freelance jobs, or picking up a side hustle can help give your savings a boost.
- Put any unexpected cash to good use: If you get any sudden windfalls, like a tax refund, bonus, inheritance, or cash gift from family, put it toward your house fund. You’ll thank yourself later.
The common thread here? The right prep work makes a difference.
Preparation Is Your Advantage in the Chicago Market
If buying a home in 2026 is on your radar, starting early gives you clarity, confidence, and better choices. And in a market like Chicago, where pricing, inventory, and competition can change quickly by neighborhood, preparation is what separates stressed buyers from smart buyers.
This is where working with experienced Chicago real estate agents and brokers truly matters. A trusted real estate agency can help you understand your budget, timing, and strategy long before you ever tour your first home.
You don’t have to rush. You just need a plan.
If you’re considering buying in Chicago and want help creating a plan that fits your goals, let’s connect and start preparing for your moment.
