Why Planning for 2026 Could Be the Most Important Financial Move You Make

Most people wait until January to think about planning. But by then, opportunity has already passed them by.

The truth is, the most successful homeowners, investors, and professionals don’t just react to changes — they anticipate them. And with 2026 bringing new tax laws, market shifts, and investment openings, planning ahead this fall could set the tone for your entire financial year.

A Year of Change Is Coming

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) changed the financial landscape. It made many of the 2017 tax benefits permanent — keeping lower brackets, expanding deductions, and simplifying how families and business owners can save more of what they earn.

That stability creates a window of opportunity. Whether you own real estate, run a business, or simply want to make smarter financial decisions, 2026 will reward those who plan early and align their strategies to the new rules.

But the key isn’t just understanding the law — it’s knowing how to apply it to your situation.

Why Planning Ahead Pays

When you wait until tax time to make decisions, you’ve already lost your leverage.
Planning ahead gives you options — to time your income, adjust your investments, and position your assets before deadlines close.

Think of it as financial chess: the earlier you see the board, the more moves you can make.

In my experience, a few targeted adjustments made before year-end — such as reallocating real estate equity, setting up a tax-advantaged retirement contribution, or structuring depreciation properly — can make a six-figure difference over time.

Real Estate Still Leads the Conversation

Even in a changing market, real estate remains one of the most powerful planning tools.
Whether you’re downsizing to reduce costs or upgrading while buyer incentives are strong, the choices you make now determine your equity, cash flow, and tax position for years ahead.

Buyers currently have leverage in many Phoenix-area markets — but that window won’t last forever. Smart investors are using 2025 to lock in favorable pricing and financing, then pairing those purchases with tax strategies that optimize depreciation and offset income.

In short, your home isn’t just where you live — it’s part of your financial plan.

Tax and Investment Strategies That Create Momentum

Under the new law, lower tax brackets and higher deductions remain — but how you use them determines your outcome.
This is the year to explore:

• Income shifting and expense timing to maximize deductions

• Roth conversions while rates remain low

• Real estate depreciation and cost segregation to reduce taxable income

• Retirement distribution strategies (like 72(t) SEPP withdrawals) for early flexibility

Tax planning doesn’t happen at filing time. It happens now — before the year closes.

Balancing Real Estate and Market Holdings

Another essential part of planning is knowing where your money works hardest.
Too much exposure in one area — whether it’s the market or real estate — creates imbalance.
Your 2026 plan should bring stability, ensuring you have the right mix of liquidity, income, and appreciation to grow safely, regardless of market direction.

Planning Isn’t Just About Numbers — It’s About Direction

What planning really gives you is clarity.
It’s the ability to look at your finances and know where you’re headed — not just for next year, but for the next decade.

Every financial decision should serve a larger goal — retirement, flexibility, legacy, or time freedom. 2026 is a rare opportunity to design your roadmap while the conditions still favor you.

Take the First Step

If you haven’t reviewed your situation yet, now is the time.

I’m offering complimentary 2026 Planning Sessions for clients, partners, and real estate professionals who want to make informed, strategic moves before the new year.
We’ll review your current position, identify key opportunities, and outline steps that align your real estate, tax, and investment strategy for maximum efficiency.

📅 Schedule your session today and enter 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a plan that truly works for you.

About the Author

Eric Ravenscroft is a REALTOR® and financial strategist based in the Greater Phoenix Metro. With more than 15 years of experience in real estate and wealth management, he helps clients align real estate, tax, and financial planning strategies to build lasting financial freedom.