As we race towards the end of the year (and a mulled wine and mince pie), you may find yourself doing what Santa does best: making lists. Gift lists, festive to-do lists, Christmas dinner timings, last-minute jobs – moving home wishes… It’s all part of Christmas tradition.
But if moving home features top of your wish list for 2026, here’s another list worth checking twice - a simpler, calmer set of steps you can take during Twixtmas to set yourself up for moving success next year.
Don’t worry, there’s no spreadsheets involved (unless you’re that way inclined). Think of it as a little added value, a token of my esteem – a simple guide… Here are the little things you can do while you relax, browse Rightmove and dream about your new house.
1. Take stock of your finances
When you work with MK Mortgages, one of the first things we’ll explore is your overall financial picture. Over the festive break you can get ahead by:
- Scanning through recent bank statements
- Noting any monthly payments you no longer need or want
- Checking your savings.
And if you haven’t done so recently, take a peek at your credit score. No pressure, just a bit of pre-planning.
2. Think about your ‘non-negotiables’
Finding the right home becomes much smoother when you already know what matters to you. So, ask yourself:
- Location: Where do you really want or need to live?
- Space: How many bedrooms are non-negotiable? What kind of layout feels right?
- Lifestyle: Do you need commuting ease, a big garden, good schools, countryside or city close by?
- Budget: What’s comfortable, not just possible?
Write these ideas down. Whether it’s on the back of a card, a notebook or your phone, clarity now will save you surprises later.
3. Get your documents in order
When you’re ready to explore your mortgage options, mountains of paperwork can slow things down. Let’s keep it simple: get the basics together now, and when you’re ready, you’ll breeze through the rest when we meet.
Start with:
- Your ID (passport or driving licence) with correct address
- Payslips or income evidence (especially if self-employed)
- Recent bank statements – not screen shots, actual statements
- Proof of address (utility bill, official letter)
- Any details of current debts or financial commitments.
No rush, just gather what’s easy now to take the pressure off later.
4. Reflect on your moving home timeline
When would you ideally like to move? Spring? Summer? Before the next school term?
Knowing your target helps shape the right strategy: when to get a Mortgage in Principle (MiP), when to view, when to lock down a mortgage offer.
If your answer is ‘I’m not sure yet… I’ll see how the new year feels’, that’s fine too. At MK Mortgages we’ll work at your pace.
5. Don’t forget the fun stuff
Home-buying isn’t all numbers and forms, it’s about imagining those morning coffees in your new kitchen, thinking about finally having a home office, or throwing a garden party next summer.
Let yourself dream a little. That’s what Twixtmas is meant for!
Ready to start anew in 2026 and think about moving home?
If one of your New Year’s intentions is to get serious about moving home, let MK Mortgages guide you. January is a great time to explore your mortgage options, find out what you could borrow, and map out a clear plan with no jargon and no pressure.
Until then, enjoy your Christmas. Relax. Switch off.
And when you’re ready to start ticking boxes on your 2026 home mover list, we’ll be here.
Warm wishes from MK Mortgages – Here’s wishing you an exciting year ahead.
