Reset: From Routines to Rituals
If you are anything like me, you love a fresh start. There’s a certain comfort to January, like fresh sheets or a new pair of socks, that carries with it a natural invitation to reset.
Krystal and I had some downtime visiting family in Texas last week where I was able to meditate on 2025 and where my focus should be for 2026.
I thought a lot about how I want to put more intention into my discipline to follow through with one daily, one weekly and one monthly ritual. I am using the word ritual in place of routine with the purpose to be intentful behind what I am doing.
I would often find myself operating on autopilot or being reactive in 2025. I want 2026 to be about clarity of what rituals set everything else in motion.
Brownsville, Texas
Local Events
Things to Do…
Indy Winter Farmers Market
Located at the AMP by 16 Tech is one of my favorites, including warm weather, outdoor markets! This market takes place every Saturday until April 25th from 9a.m. to 12:30p.m. The AMP is an Indy hidden gem in itself with several restaurants, vendors, and events taking place regularly.
The Carmel Farmers Market
This does technically take you out of the Indy area, but they have over 50 local vendors selling fresh meat, vegetables, milk, and more! They even have live music occasionally and a great cafe set up inside, so you can enjoy some of the yummy goodies you purchase at the market. This one is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Places to eat & drink…
Recess Social
I was able to attend the grand opening of Recess Social, Indy’s newest matcha spot! They successfully sold out their daily anticipated sales in the 1st hour! They also go the extra mile to source their matcha directly from Japan. If you are a fan of matcha or looking for a new atmosphere to meetup with friends give this place a visit!
Daisy Bar
Located in the newly established Factory Arts District, Daisy Bar is one of my newest favorites if you are wanting breakfast, lunch, or coffee. With a vibrant setting that features art and decor from local artists, this should be your next foodie adventure in Indy.
Market Minute
What I am looking at in 2026
In 2026, I’m less focused on headlines and more focused on what a home actually costs month to month.
Trying to predict or time the market might cause you to miss where real opportunity exists and Indianapolis continues to stand out in a meaningful way.
Recently, the National Association of REALTORS released its outlook for 2026 and identified a short list of markets across the country that are positioned to outperform as affordability improves and more buyers return. Indianapolis was one of them.
What stood out most in that research wasn’t hype, it was alignment. Markets expected to do well in 2026 share a few key traits: improving affordability, rising inventory, and housing options that actually match what people earn. As mortgage rates ease and more homes come to market, millions of households nationwide may regain the ability to buy, but that opportunity shows up most clearly in cities where ownership is still attainable.
That’s where Indianapolis is unique.
I’m reminded of this constantly through my work with out-of-state clients. Many live in places like New York or California and tell me the same thing: buying a home or rental property where they live simply isn’t realistic. Indianapolis is on their radar precisely because affordability makes homeownership and the long-term benefits of owning real estate possible.
For those of us who already live here, that’s easy to overlook. But it’s a real advantage. We’re privileged to live in a city where buying a home, building equity, and creating stability through real estate is still within reach for many people.
That’s why I’m optimistic about 2026. Not because of predictions, but because of opportunity. My focus this year is helping people understand what’s possible right here, plan wisely, and make decisions that serve them well long term.
Renato’s Take on Refinancing
Refinancing can be a smart move depending on your goals and where rates are today. In many cases, even a 0.50% to 1.00% rate improvement can lower your monthly payment, creating meaningful savings and better cash flow. In Indiana, closing costs are very affordable compared to other states, and with the right loan structure, refinancing can often be done with little to no out of pocket cost.
Even if refinancing isn’t the right move today, a quick review helps make sure your mortgage is still working for you.
“Today’s market is giving many buyers the opportunity to negotiate a great purchase and refinance later if rates drop. As we like to say, “marry the house and date the rate”! You’re not stuck forever with the rate and you’re always allowed to improve it when a better option comes along.”
-Renato Lima, Approved Mortgage Advisor
Quick Stats on Indianapolis
42,700+ additional households in Indianapolis would qualify for a median-priced home with mortgage rates easing to 6%
Millennials households represent 37.0% of all households in the area
1.1% job growth from a year ago
Better match between home prices and incomes: 0.89 score compared to 0.67 nationally
7.5% growth in single-family permits compared to last year
4.8% more mortgage originations in 2024
Public Service Announcement
Sharing Is Caring
At the start of a new year, a lot of people quietly start thinking about big life decisions, possibly buying their first home, selling a place that no longer fits, or just trying to figure out what their options are.
If there’s someone you care about who’s even thinking about buying or selling this year, I’d love to be a resource for them. No pressure, no sales pitch, just help sorting through the questions and next steps.
Often, the hardest part is knowing who to talk to early, before decisions feel rushed or stressful. That’s where I can help.
If it’s helpful, the easiest way to connect us is a simple group text like this:
“Hey [Name], this is Kyle Hoffman — someone I trust in real estate. Kyle, [Name] is starting to think about a move this year and could use some guidance.”
I’ll take it from there and meet them exactly where they are.
My goal is to make sure the people you care about have someone in their corner as they navigate a big decision. If I can be that person, I’d be honored.
A Final Note
Biblical wisdom for 2026 — not just a suggestion, but a command.
“ Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
Until next month,
Plant Roots. Build Community.