plan-your-2026-home-goals

2026 Is Closer Than You Think — Here’s How to Start Your Home Plan Now

December 26, 20252 min read

Most people don’t wake up one morning and say, “I think I’ll buy a house today.”
Home buying is a lifestyle decision — and if 2026 is the year you want to make a move in Central Florida, now is the perfect time to start preparing.

And don’t worry — this isn’t a mortgage lecture.
This is the fun, clarifying, and stress-free part of planning.

Let’s map out what truly matters.


1. Get Clear on Why You Want to Move

Before you look at listings or neighborhoods, ask yourself:

  • Do you need more space?

  • Want a shorter commute?

  • Want to be closer to Winter Park, Maitland, Oviedo, or family?

  • Want a walkable community?

  • Need a yard for pets or a growing family?

Your “why” determines your “where.”


2. Visualize the Lifestyle You Want in 2026

Picture your ideal day:

☀️ Morning coffee on a screened lanai
🚶‍♀️ Walk to nearby parks
🛒 10–15 minutes to shops
🎉 Space to host friends
🐶 Room for pets
💼 Home office or flex space

Create a quick list — this becomes our roadmap.


3. Define Your “Non-Negotiables” vs “Nice-to-Haves”

This helps you stay focused in 2026 when homes hit the market.

Examples:
Non-Negotiables
✔ Safe, quiet community
✔ Updated kitchen
✔ At least 3 beds
✔ Good school zone

Nice-to-Haves
• A pool
• Oversized lot
• Extra garage space
• Smart-home upgrades


4. Understand What Neighborhoods Fit Your Life (Not Just Your Budget)

Here’s where my expertise makes things easy.
Once you share your goals, I can recommend communities that match:

  • Maitland

  • Winter Springs

  • Oviedo

  • Casselberry

  • Winter Park

  • Lake Mary

Each has a unique vibe — some more suburban, some more walkable, some more family-oriented.


5. Optional: Learn About Programs You May Qualify For (Not Required)

If — and only if — you're curious, I created a simple page explaining programs available.
But again, this is optional and NOT required for planning.

👉 Explore programs here: https://www.allisondayhomes.com/9-loan-programs


6. Set Your “Decision Windows” Ahead of Time

Instead of guessing next year, you’ll already know:

  • The month you want to start looking

  • How fast you want to move

  • Which neighborhoods you love

  • What type of home fits

  • What lifestyle you’re building toward

This makes the 2026 process smooth and stress-free.


✨ Ready to Create Your Personalized 2026 Plan?

Let's map out your ideal home journey, fun, simple, and totally personalized.
👉 Start here: https://allisondayhomes.com/holiday-home-staging-guide-central-florida

Allison Day

Local Real Estate expert serving the Greater Orlando area since 2005!

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