Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home in Tampa in 2026

Is buying a home one of your New Year’s resolutions? If it is, then what you’re doing right now matters. We’re already in January 2026, and I see many people who want to buy a home this year but don’t realize their preparation needs to start immediately.

Let’s walk through a few things you can be doing right now to put yourself in a better position to buy a home in 2026.

1. Be careful with spending and new debt. A lot of people set themselves up for financial trouble early in the year by carrying over holiday habits.

Additionally, now is not the time to open a new line of credit for a car or furniture. I know the urge is there, but you need to resist it. Taking on new debt right now can negatively impact your ability to buy a home later this year.

2. Run your credit and check your score. Don’t just guess, actually know where you stand. Keep an eye on your credit all the way up until you buy a home. If there’s anything incorrect, dispute it.

If your credit needs work or you need more established credit, start on that now. You’ve got to understand your credit profile so you can take the right steps and set yourself up for success, no surprises later.

“The choices you make now can set you up to buy your dream home this year.”

3. Report your taxes the right way. If you’re self-employed, you need to make sure you’re reporting your income the right way on your taxes.

This is the time to talk to your CPA and the lender you plan to work with. We recommend Melissa Rodriguez at Citywide Home Mortgage, but whoever you use, the important part is alignment. When you file your taxes and wrap up your financials, everything should line up so you’re able to qualify when you’re ready to buy.

4. Plan for your down payment. You need to figure out how you’ll come up with your down payment. You may qualify for a low- or no-down-payment option, but if you don’t have cash available, you still need a plan. That money might come from saving and investing, withdrawing from a 401(k) or IRA, taking a loan, or receiving a gift. One way or another, you need access to funds to buy a home this year.

5. Talk to a lender. This is one of the smartest things you can do early in the process. Having a second set of eyes on your financial profile helps you understand what it actually takes to qualify and what you may need to adjust. The goal is to know where you stand now so you can make intentional moves throughout the year.

At the same time, start paying attention to neighborhoods. Look at schools, districts, and the areas you’re drawn to. Begin refining what matters most to you. The more focused you are on what you want and where you want to be, the more prepared and confident you’ll feel as you move through 2026.

If you’d like a walkthrough of the process or want help getting started, reach out anytime at (813) 359-8990 or email info@theduncanduo.com. I’d be glad to guide you step by step.