2026 Homeowner Resolutions: Simple Ways to Refresh Your Space in the New Year

As we kick off another year, many of us are thinking about how we can improve our lives — and that often starts with the place we spend most of our time: home. Whether you’ve been in your house for a few months or a few years, now’s a great time to make intentional changes that support comfort, well‑being, and value.

Here are five thoughtful resolutions for homeowners that go beyond “get organized,” focusing on wellness, purpose, and intentional upgrades.

Add More Nature to Your Space

Adding a few indoor plants can do more than brighten a room — it can actually boost your mood, productivity, and even air quality. Research from Texas A&M and other sources shows that being around plants can reduce stress and improve memory retention and focus.

Easy-care options like pothos, peace lilies, and snake plants are great starters, and if you’re short on surface space, consider a hanging planter or wall-mounted shelf.

Declutter and Donate With Purpose

Start the year off with a clean slate — and a clear closet. Decluttering your home can help reduce anxiety and increase your sense of control. If you’re not using it, or it doesn’t serve your current lifestyle, it might be time to let it go.

Donating gently used items not only frees up space but also benefits others. Local shelters, resale shops, and national organizations like Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity are great places to start.

Start Planning a Renovation

Even if you’re not ready to pick up a hammer tomorrow, winter is a great time to start planning your next project. Whether it’s updating your kitchen, refreshing a bathroom, or finally replacing that carpet, getting a head start on planning allows you to:

• Compare pricing and materials
• Create realistic timelines
• Watch for seasonal sales

Need advice on what upgrades add the most value? Your Realtor® can help you prioritize based on what buyers in your area are looking for.

Planning upgrades or repairs? Explore trusted local partners through CB Preferred

Tackle That One Lingering Chore

Every homeowner has one: the drawer you won’t open, the box in the garage you haven’t touched in years, or the maintenance or painting task that keeps slipping down the to-do list.

This is the year to cross it off for good. Break it into steps, set a weekend aside, or hire a pro if needed. Sometimes, completing one long-delayed task can spark momentum for everything else.

Check In on Your Mortgage and Equity

With interest rates and home values shifting, it’s worth taking a fresh look at your mortgage. Could refinancing save you money? Has your equity grown enough to explore a home equity line of credit for improvements?

Talk to a trusted mortgage advisor to explore your current options and see what’s possible for your goals in 2026.

Here’s to a home that feels even more like yours this year — functional, refreshed, and filled with purpose.

Looking for more homeowner tips and guidance?

Explore our latest homeowner resources and articles for practical advice on maintenance, upgrades, and long-term home value