Smart Financial Goals for Homeowners in 2026

A new year is the perfect opportunity to take a fresh look at your financial picture as a homeowner. Whether you bought your home recently or have lived in it for years, setting intentional goals can help you build equity, strengthen your financial stability, and make the most of your investment.

Here are a few smart, achievable financial goals to consider as you head into 2026.

1. Review Your Mortgage and Explore Refinancing Options

Interest rates can shift from year to year, and even small changes can make a meaningful difference in your long-term financial health. In 2026, many homeowners may benefit from reviewing their current rate, loan type, and monthly payment to ensure they’re still in the best position.

Refinancing could help you:

• Lower your monthly payment
• Shorten your loan term
• Access equity for home improvements
• Consolidate higher‑interest debt

If you’re unsure whether a refinance makes sense this year, I’m always here to help you run the numbers.

2. Build or Replenish Your Home Emergency Fund

Unexpected repairs happen, especially in Wisconsin. From furnace breakdowns to roof leaks, having a dedicated home emergency fund reduces stress and keeps you from relying on high interest credit in a pinch.

A good benchmark is to set aside 1–2% of your home’s value annually for maintenance. Start small if needed, what matters is building consistency.

3. Plan Ahead for Property Tax and Insurance Changes

Property taxes and homeowners insurance can fluctuate year to year. Taking time early in 2026 to review your escrow account (or set aside funds if you don’t escrow) can help you avoid surprises later.

If you’ve recently remodeled or made major updates, your insurance needs may have changed, worth a check‑in to keep your coverage aligned with your home’s current value.

4. Increase Your Home’s Value Through Strategic Improvements

Not all upgrades are created equal. If building equity is one of your goals for 2026, consider projects with strong return on investment, such as:

• Energy efficient updates
• Kitchen and bathroom refreshes
• Exterior improvements like siding or new windows
• Mechanical upgrades (HVAC, water heater, etc.)

If you’re thinking about funding a project, we can explore whether a home equity loan or line of credit is the right tool.

5. Get a Clear Picture of Your Long‑Term Equity Strategy

For many homeowners, equity is their biggest wealth building asset. Setting goals for how you want to use it, or grow it, can help you stay ahead financially.

In 2026, consider reviewing:

• How much equity you currently have
• How much equity you’d like to build in the next 3–5 years
• Whether future plans (moving, upsizing, downsizing) should impact your strategy

I’m always happy to walk through your options and make sure your mortgage continues to support your goals.

Let’s Make 2026 Your Strongest Homeownership Year Yet

Whether you’re looking to refinance, plan a remodeling project, or better understand your equity, you don’t have to navigate it alone. As your local mortgage loan officer, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Contact me anytime at mselner@anbfc.bank or visit anbfc.bank to get started.
Let’s set smart goals for 2026, together.