As a mortgage broker, I talk to people every day who want to make smarter financial decisions. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, looking to refinance, or just trying to stay on top of your goals, January isn’t the time to start planning. December is.
Let’s walk through a few key financial habits and three powerful questions you can ask yourself now to set the tone for 2026.
🔁 Start with the Financial Basics
Even before we talk big-picture goals, there are a few foundational moves that can give you a head start:
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Prioritize High-Interest Debt:
Credit cards charging 20%+? Consider consolidating that into a lower-interest option. I can help you explore this if you’re also looking to refinance.
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Automate Your Savings:
Even $50 per paycheck adds up. Set up automatic transfers so you’re not tempted to spend what you could be saving.
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Check Your Credit Score:
If you’re planning to buy or refinance in 2026, your credit score will play a major role. Stay on top of it now by paying bills in full and on time.
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Forgive Yourself for Past Mistakes:
Financial growth starts with a mindset. Let go of guilt from past missteps and focus on what you can do differently today.
❓3 Big Questions to Guide Your 2026 Financial Reset
1. When Was the Last Time You Reviewed Your Accounts?
If it’s been more than a month or two, now’s the time:
✅ Scan for unrecognized charges or subscriptions
✅ Cancel recurring payments for services you no longer use
✅ Reassess monthly fees—small changes can lead to big savings
💡 Pro Tip: This is also a good time to review your mortgage statement. If your rate is variable or coming up for renewal, I can help assess your options.
2. What Are You Saving For?
Having savings goals is great—but knowing why you’re saving is even better.
🏡 A new home?
🌴 A dream vacation?
📦 A rainy-day fund or emergency cushion?
The more specific your goal, the easier it is to stay motivated.
Two tips to help:
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Get Organized:
Use separate accounts or budgeting apps to track progress and keep your goals visible.
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Grow Your Savings Strategically:
Short-term? Stick to high-interest savings accounts.
Long-term? Investing could help your money grow faster.
If your goal includes homeownership, let’s discuss how to structure your savings to support a down payment or refinance.
3. Do Your Spending Habits Need a Reset?
Time for a quick “audit”:
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Review the last 3 months of your credit and bank statements
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Identify trends or spending triggers (hello, Amazon or Uber Eats?)
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Set limits where needed—but be realistic
🧠 Consider this your invitation also to level up your financial literacy. Whether it’s watching YouTube videos or listening to podcasts, understanding things like:
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Compounding interest (on debt and investments)
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Investment accounts (TFSA, RRSP, FHSA)
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Real estate as an asset class
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How mortgage pre-approvals work
…can make a huge difference in your long-term financial outcomes.
Final Thought: Take the Emotion Out of It
Finances can be stressful—but they don’t have to be. When you have a plan, a goal, and a guide (like a mortgage broker 👋), it becomes a lot easier.
If a home purchase, refinance, or mortgage renewal is part of your 2026 plan, now’s the time to get pre-approved or review your current mortgage.