It’s that time of the year when we’re all thinking about what resolutions to make for the new year. Some will leave us better off in terms of our health and wellness, and others will move us in a different direction for our careers.
However, given how much time we spend in our personal sanctuaries, it is worth making a few property resolutions for the year ahead. Whether you own your property or rent, how you manage your home directly affects your financial health and daily peace of mind.
According to Michelle Cohen, Principal at Leapfrog Johannesburg North East, “We often view our homes as static assets or simple necessities, but a proactive approach to property can yield massive returns. Making small, consistent changes in 2026 can lower your stress levels, save you money, and turn your home into a space that truly supports your lifestyle.”
If you are looking to be more property-savvy this year, here are eight resolutions to put on your list.
1. Pay more than the minimum into your bond
“For homeowners, this is one of the most powerful financial resolutions you can make,” says Cohen.
Interest on a bond is calculated daily on the outstanding balance. By paying even a little bit more than the required minimum each month, you reduce that capital balance faster. Over the course of a 20-year loan, these small additional contributions can shave years off your repayment term and save you a significant amount in interest.
Another useful tip Cohen has is for new property owners. “When the registers into your name, whether it’s mid-month or before your debit order date, make your first bond repayment immediately as it means you’ll be one payment ahead from the get-go, which makes a difference in the long run.”
2. Start a "Future Home" fund
If you are renting, financial freedom is built on habits, not just high incomes. This year, resolve to open a dedicated savings account specifically labelled "Future Home."
Cohen notes: “This psychological labelling is key, it prevents you from dipping into the fund for holidays. Even if buying a home feels years away, building this cash reserve gives you options”.
It could serve as a deposit on your current place, cover the costs of moving to a better rental, or act as a safety net. The goal is to get into the rhythm of "paying yourself" for your future property needs.
3. Get a free assessment
“One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is staying in the dark about the current value of their property. You don't need to be planning to sell to benefit from an updated assessment,” Cohen advises.
A professional estate agent can provide a realistic estimate of what your home is worth in the current market. Furthermore, it ensures you aren’t underinsured.
4. Conduct a mid-year snag list
For tenants, the end-of-lease inspection can be a source of anxiety. Resolve to change that dynamic in 2026 by conducting your own "mid-year snag list."
“Walk through the property six months into your lease and report minor issues, like a sticky lock or a leaking tap, immediately. By addressing maintenance issues as they arise, you prevent them from becoming expensive damages that could be deducted from your deposit later. It also positions you as a responsible tenant, which is excellent leverage when negotiating a lease renewal,” says Cohen.
5. Finally tackle the "Fix-It" list
|For homeowners, ‘house blindness’ is a real phenomenon,” says xxx. “We become so accustomed to the crack in the patio tiles or the peeling paint that we stop seeing them”.
This year, make a list of everything you have been meaning to fix. Instead of being overwhelmed, schedule one task per month. Maintaining a property is far cheaper than repairing damage that has gone neglected. An overflowing gutter, for example, could lead to water damage that costs 10 times as much to fix as a simple cleaning would.
6. "Green" your routine
With the cost of utilities rising, energy efficiency is a resolution that benefits everyone. You don't need solar panels to make a difference.
Commit to small, high-impact changes. Swap out old lightbulbs for LEDs, install low-flow aerators on taps, or use draft stoppers on doors.
Cohen says: “These changes reduce your monthly expenses immediately and, for owners, add to the appeal of the home if you ever decide to sell”.
7. Organise your property admin
Property comes with a mountain of paperwork. 2026 is the year to go digital.
Whether it is your lease agreement, municipal bills, compliance certificates (COC), or warranties, scan them and store them in a secure cloud folder. Having instant access to these documents reduces stress when you need to file an insurance claim, renew a lease, or prove compliance.
8. Invest in your community
Finally, remember that a property doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The value of your home, and your enjoyment of it, can be tied to the neighbourhood.
“Resolve to be a better neighbour this year,” Cohen encourages. “This simply means being the eyes and ears of your community or joining the local WhatsApp group for safety updates”.
A well-connected, cared-for neighbourhood is safer and retains its property value far better than a disjointed one.
Resolutions don’t always have to be about restriction or hard work. Sometimes, they are simply about making smarter decisions. By taking a proactive approach to your property in 2026, you are setting the stage for a year that is more organised, financially secure, and comfortable.
