More South Jersey Homebuyers Are Planning To Move in 2026. Here’s How To Get Ready.
Momentum is quietly building in the housing market. New data from NerdWallet shows more Americans are starting to think about buying a home again. Last year, 15% of respondents said they planned to buy a home in the next 12 months. This year, that number rose to 17%.
That 2% increase might not sound huge, but it signals a shift. In our South Jersey market, where buyer demand has cooled these past few years, we’re noticing this change too. More local buyers in towns like Maple Shade and Franklinville are feeling ready to make their move in 2026.
If buying a home is on your goal sheet this year, now’s the time to connect with a local agent. You’ll also need a trusted lender to start laying the groundwork for your purchase. The South Jersey market moves fast when it heats up.
Planning To Move in Early 2026? Start with These 4 Steps
Ready to get the ball rolling? Here’s what to tackle first:
- Get pre-approved. This step shows you what you can actually afford in today’s market. Even if a purchase may be a few months away, you’ll see your real buying power and potential monthly payments, and have an opportunity to make credit improvements that could increase your budget or lower your interest rate.
- Run the numbers. Look at all your expenses to set a realistic budget. Consider what you spend on bills now. Then factor in what your monthly mortgage might be. New Jersey has property taxes to consider too. This helps you go in with clear expectations.
- Define your non-negotiables. Once the numbers work, list your must-haves. This includes location, commute time, home layout, and school district needs. South Jersey offers everything from historic homes to new builds. Getting clear on these points makes your search much easier.
- Choose your agent early. Read online reviews and talk to several agents. Find someone you trust and connect with personally. The right agent helps you understand pricing in specific towns. They’ll guide you on competition, timing, and strategy before you make any offers.
Thinking about Buying Later in the Year? This Is Your Prep Window
Even if your home purchase feels more like a late-2026 goal, now still matters. The most confident buyers in our region are those who quietly prepared months ahead.
You don’t need to make big financial commitments yet. Just set yourself up for success so you’re ready when the time is right. Here are some low-stress ways to prepare in the coming months:
- Work on your credit. Your score affects your loan terms and mortgage rate. Better scores can save thousands over the life of a loan. Pay down debt and make on-time payments to boost your score. Even small improvements can help with New Jersey lender requirements.
- Automate your savings. Set up automatic transfers to your home buying fund. This removes the temptation to spend elsewhere. Even small regular amounts add up, especially when saving for closing costs. In South Jersey, expect to need $8,000-$12,000 for closing on a mid-priced home.
- Lean into your side hustles: Take on part-time work or freelance jobs to boost your savings. Every extra dollar helps, especially in markets like Moorestown or Cherry Hill where homes can command higher prices. The extra income can help you reach your down payment goals faster.
- Put windfalls to good use: If you get tax refunds, bonuses, or cash gifts, direct them to your house fund. This strategy helps many first-time buyers in towns like Sewell gather their down payment more quickly than they expected.
The right prep work makes all the difference in our local market
Bottom Line
If buying a home in South Jersey in 2026 is on your radar, let’s talk today. We won’t rush you into a decision. Instead, we’ll help you create a solid plan that works for your timeline.
Every move goes smoother when it starts with good preparation. Need help creating a plan that works? Let’s connect.
