If buying a home in Maryland is one of your big goals for 2026, you’re not alone — and you’re also not too early. In fact, the last two weeks of December are one of the best times to prepare for a successful homebuying journey. While everyone else is winding down, you can use this window to get ahead of the competition and enter the new year with a clear, confident plan.

Here are 10 practical steps you can take right now to make sure you’re ready to become a homeowner in 2026 — whether you’re aiming for a rowhome in Baltimore City, a townhouse in Anne Arundel County, or a single-family home in the suburbs.

1. Review Your Credit Score & Report

Your credit score will impact everything — your mortgage rate, loan options, and affordability.
Before January 1st, pull your credit report and dispute any errors, pay off small balances, and set up automatic payments going forward. Even a tiny bump in your score can save you thousands over time.

2. Get Pre-Approved (or Pre-Qualified) Early

Many Maryland buyers wait until spring to talk to a lender — but the smartest ones start in December. A lender can help you understand your purchasing power, estimate your monthly payment, and create a financial game plan unique to your needs. Even if you’re not ready to buy today, a pre-approval baseline helps guide your preparation.

3. Build (or Boost) Your Down Payment Fund

The last two weeks of December are perfect for evaluating your budget and setting up a savings timeline.
Buyers often don’t realize how many programs exist in Maryland, including down payment and closing cost assistance, first-time buyer incentives, and county-specific grants. Start researching which ones you may qualify for and how to prepare.

4. Stabilize Your Employment & Income

Lenders love consistency. If possible, avoid major job changes — or at least talk to a lender in advance if you expect to switch roles.
If you’re in a commission-based job, start tracking your income and organizing documents now so you’re ready when underwriting begins.

5. Organize Your Financial Documents

Tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, proof of debts — you’ll need a lot of paperwork when buying a home.
Use this quiet time in December to organize everything into a digital folder. When your lender asks for something later, you’ll already be steps ahead.

6. Explore Neighborhoods Before the Spring Rush

Winter is one of the best times to get a real feel for a neighborhood’s character. Take a drive through areas you’re considering — Locust Point, Canton, Ellicott City, Towson, Columbia, Bel Air, etc.
Note commute times, parking situations, and overall vibe. Start narrowing down your favorites now.

7. Get Real About Your Budget

Don’t wait until January to figure out what you can truly afford.
Look at your monthly expenses and determine what kind of mortgage payment you’re comfortable with. Remember to factor in utilities, maintenance, homeowners insurance, property taxes, and HOA fees if applicable.

8. Avoid Big Purchases (Yes, Even Holiday Deals!)

It’s tempting to take advantage of December sales, but hold off on financing anything big — cars, furniture, appliances, new credit cards, etc.
Big purchases can derail your credit score or increase your debt-to-income ratio, making mortgage approval more difficult.

9. Connect With a Real Estate Agent Early

Your agent is your strategist, guide, negotiator, and educator — and connecting early gives you access to insider knowledge about upcoming listings, off-market opportunities, and local programs.
Plus, December is a quieter month, so you can have more meaningful conversations and planning sessions.

10. Visualize Your 2026 Homeownership Goals

Finally, get clear about what you want:

• Your ideal home type
  
  

• Your must-have features
  
  

• Your non-negotiables
  
  

• Your preferred neighborhoods
  
  

• Your price range
  
  

Write everything down so your agent and lender can help bring your vision into reality.

The Bottom Line: Your 2026 Home Starts With What You Do Today

Maryland’s real estate market stays competitive — but thoughtful preparation gives you a major advantage. If homeownership is part of your 2026 goals, the last two weeks of December are your secret weapon. While the world slows down for the holidays, you can start building momentum toward your biggest milestone yet.

And when you’re ready, our team at Frank Oliver Collective is here to guide you every step of the way — from planning to closing and beyond.
Let’s make 2026 the year you love where you live.