As the year winds down, this is an ideal time for homeowners and future sellers to organize key documents. Clear records create smoother conversations with your licensed tax professional and support you when it’s time to list your home in the future.
Below is a simple, structured guide to help you prepare.
1. Gather Your Home Purchase Documents
If you purchased a home this year, begin by organizing:
Closing disclosures
Final settlement statements
Warranty information
HOA documentation (if applicable)
Keeping these documents in a single folder—digital or physical—ensures you have immediate access when questions arise.
2. Compile Records of Home Improvements
Any updates completed during the year should be logged with:
Receipts
Contractor invoices
Dates of work completed
Descriptions of materials used
This documentation may support future resale value conversations and help your listing agent clearly communicate the home’s features when it’s time to sell.
3. Organize Routine Maintenance Logs
A well-documented maintenance history helps protect your investment. Consider tracking:
HVAC servicing
Roof or gutter care
Pest control
Appliance maintenance
Landscaping services
These records help demonstrate how well the home has been cared for—something buyers appreciate during a future sale.
4. Review Home-Related Insurance Documents
Ensure your homeowner’s insurance information is current and accessible. Confirm you have:
Your updated policy
Claims documentation (if any)
Contact information for your agent
This is also a good time to check for upcoming policy renewals.
5. Prepare Questions for Your Licensed Tax Professional
While I cannot provide tax guidance, preparing thoughtful questions can support a more productive appointment. You might ask about:
What documents they prefer you bring
Which home-related expenses you should track
How long you should retain various records
Your tax professional can offer clarity specific to your financial situation.
📨 Need a Year-End Home Prep Folder?
If you’d like a clean, ready-to-use digital checklist to keep your home documents organized, reply “FOLDER” and I’ll send it to you.
You’ll enter the new year prepared—whether you plan to stay in your home or begin planning your move.