As the year begins to come to a close, now is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and prepare for what’s ahead in 2026. Whether you’re planning your next financial move, reviewing your goals, or exploring new lending opportunities, a little preparation can set you up for a stronger year ahead.
Below we’ve put together some practical financial planning and finance tips, directly from our team at Core Wealth, to help you step into 2026 feeling organised, confident, and ready to make the most of every opportunity.
1. Reflect on What Matters Most
The holiday season often brings a slower pace, a chance to reconnect with family, friends, and what’s truly important. It’s also an ideal time to think about how your lifestyle aligns with your financial goals.
So, take some time to ask yourself:
- Are you spending enough time and money on the things that matter most to you?
- Are you happy with your work-life balance?
- Could small changes lead to better outcomes or greater fulfilment?
Financial planning isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about designing a life that aligns with your values. Taking time to reflect now helps you make more meaningful financial decisions in the year ahead.
2. Plan Ahead for Smarter Spending
Setting clear goals early in the year can help you make more intentional choices. Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of discounts on travel, seasonal sales, and opportunities to time major expenses strategically.
When you map out what’s coming up throughout your year, from family holidays to home projects, you can manage cash flow better, avoid unnecessary stress, and get more value from your spending.
3. Review and Refocus Your Finances
A new year is the ideal moment for a financial refresh. Start by reviewing your expenses from the past 12 months – look for unused subscriptions, automatic payments, or services that you no longer use.
Redirecting even small savings can have a meaningful impact. A financial planner could advise you on whether you should channel those funds into your superannuation, investment portfolio, or simply something that brings more joy and value to your life.
This is also a great time to review your financial plan with your adviser to ensure it still aligns with both your short and long term goals.
4. Why More Australians Are Choosing Mortgage Brokers
In the current finance landscape, more Australians are turning to mortgage brokers for home and investment lending. Around 78% of home loans now go through brokers, and for good reason.
Working with a Perth mortgage broker gives you access to over 30 lenders, providing far greater choice than going directly to a single bank. Brokers also advocate for you, ensuring you get the most competitive rates and loan structures available.
Some lenders are attempting to draw borrowers back to direct banking, but that often means losing the independent advice and ongoing support that brokers provide. A good broker stays in touch and proactively looks for better deals – something most banks simply don’t do.
5. Perth Property Market Insights
The Perth property market remains highly active, with a mix of first-home buyers and investors driving demand. However, supply continues to lag behind, keeping competition strong and prices elevated.
Key market influences include:
- Limited housing supply and construction delays
- The Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme, boosting first-home buyer activity
- A strong WA economy, supported by the mining sector
- Recent interest rate cuts, increasing buyer confidence
For anyone entering or expanding in the market, working with a trusted mortgage broker can help you navigate these dynamics with clarity and confidence.
Set Yourself Up for a Successful 2026
The start of a new year brings fresh motivation, an opportunity to realign your financial goals and take action toward the life you want to create for you and your family.
Whether you’re looking to optimise your personal financial plan, explore finance options, or secure a better mortgage rate, our team at Core Wealth is here to help you make informed, strategic decisions so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of.
Ready to make 2026 your strongest financial year yet? Contact Core Wealth today to book a chat with one of our advisers or finance specialists.