What Top Agents Are Doing To Prepare for 2026

Have you ever noticed how some agents enter January already ahead while others spend the first quarter trying to regain their footing? The difference isn’t talent. It’s timing. Top producers don’t wait for the new year to get organized. They use Q4 to build momentum so they can start strong the moment January arrives.

While many agents end the year in survival mode, those who grow consistently are laying the groundwork now. Here are the five steps that will set you up for your best year in 2026.

1. Running a year-end audit. Every December is a chance to look closely at what actually worked and what didn’t. This includes reviewing which lead sources converted, which marketing efforts generated real engagement, and which activities drained your energy without producing meaningful results.

A clear audit helps you decide what to keep, what to cut, and what to double down on so you’re building a business that’s still profitable and sustainable going into the new year.

2. Cleaning and segmenting your database. Heading into 2026 with a cleaned and organized database makes a massive difference. When contacts are tagged and segmented, you know exactly who your past clients are, who’s likely to move, and who’s simply staying connected.

With that clarity, you can build follow-up campaigns for each group. Generic follow-up doesn’t drive referrals. Relevant follow-up does, and segmenting now makes that possible.

3. Building your Q1 marketing plan before January arrives. Before January hits, it’s smart to map out your entire Q1 marketing strategy. That includes emails, social posts, short-form video, and mailers.

Planning keeps you from scrambling for content when business picks up. It also helps you stay consistent, and that consistency isn’t built in January. It’s prepared in November and December.

4. Using AI to work faster without losing your voice. AI is no longer a future tool. It’s already part of how many agents save time and stay organized. You can use it to write first drafts of emails, generate market reports, analyze CRM data to find warm leads, and even help write scripts.

The goal isn’t to replace yourself. Authenticity still wins. The goal is to automate tasks that don’t require you so you can focus on client relationships, strategy, and negotiations. If you’re not experimenting with tools like ChatGPT or predictive lead scoring, you’re leaving time and money on the table.

5. Blocking a dedicated day for business planning. Setting aside a full day in December just for business planning gives you the space to think clearly. Stepping away from transactions, looking at trends, and setting goals and systems helps you avoid spending 2026 reacting to your business instead of leading it.

2026 is coming with or without a plan. You can hustle randomly, or you can build a business that’s leaner, smarter, and ready to grow. If you’d like help creating a strategy that aligns with your goals, reach out at (260) 750-2818 or david@anthonyrealtors.com. I’m happy to share what’s working and help you hit the ground running next year.