Before the Ball Drops: 10 Things Homeowners Should Do Before the New Year

Before the Ball Drops: 10 Things Homeowners Should Do Before the New Year

As the year winds down and we start thinking about fresh goals, resolutions, and new beginnings, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to get ahead of the game. Whether you’re planning to sell in the coming year, thinking about refinancing, preparing for upgrades, or simply want to stay organized, now is the perfect moment to reset and get your home in great shape.

Here’s a smart, simple, and highly effective end-of-year homeowner checklist to help you start the new year strong.

✅ 1. Review Your Home’s Value & Equity

Even if you’re not selling yet, knowing where you stand financially matters.

• Check your current home value

• Review your equity situation

• Look at recent neighborhood sales
  This helps with planning future upgrades, investments, or potential moves.

✅ 2. Schedule (or Complete) Any Lingering Maintenance

If you’ve been “meaning to get to it,” now is the time.

• Leaky faucets

• AC/Heating tune-ups

• Roof and gutter checks

• Minor repairs
  Small fixes now prevent expensive headaches later—especially in Arizona where heat and weather can be tough on homes.

✅ 3. Declutter Key Spaces

Start the year feeling lighter and more organized:

• Closets

• Pantry

• Garage

• Kids’ areas
  Donate unused items, toss what’s broken, and prepare for a cleaner, stress-free start to the year.

✅ 4. Refresh Your Home Insurance & Warranties

Life changes… so should your coverage.

• Review policy limits

• Update belongings list

• Check warranty dates on appliances
  Make sure you’re fully protected going into the new year.

✅ 5. Prep for Tax Season

Future You will thank you.

• Organize closing docs (if you bought or sold)

• Collect receipts for improvements

• Gather homeowner-related deductions
  It’s so much easier to prep in December than scrambling in March or April.

✅ 6. Update Emergency & Safety Items

Safety first—especially for families, guests, or seniors in the home:

• Test smoke and CO2 detectors

• Replace fire extinguisher if expired

• Refresh first aid kits

• Review emergency exit plan
  Peace of mind is priceless.

✅ 7. Boost Energy Efficiency

Lower bills + a more comfortable home = a win.

• Seal doors & windows

• Clean vents & filters

• Consider smart thermostat settings

• Evaluate whether solar or efficiency upgrades make sense next year
  Better efficiency adds comfort and long-term value.

✅ 8. Deep Clean Before Holiday Calm Ends

Before life speeds back up, give your home a reset:

• Carpets

• Baseboards

• Appliances

• Windows
  A clean home feels fresh, inviting, and ready for the new year.

✅ 9. Plan Next Year’s Home Goals

Think ahead strategically:

• Renovations

• Landscaping upgrades

• Selling timeline

• Investment property plans
  Good planning now means better decisions later.

✅ 10. Talk to a Real Estate Professional (Even If You’re Just Curious)

Whether you’re dreaming, planning, or preparing, a quick conversation gives you clarity on:

• Market trends

• Your home’s true value

• Smart upgrades with the best ROI

• Best timing for selling, refinancing, or investing

Knowledge = power — and peace of mind.

🎉 Start the New Year with Confidence

If you’re thinking about making a move, curious what your home is worth, or simply want guidance on where to focus next year, I’d love to help.

📲 Let’s talk before the New Year hits!
Let’s make sure you’re positioned to win in 2026 — whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or simply improving your home.