December Housing Checklist: Preparing Your Utah Home for the New Year

As the year comes to a close, December is the perfect time to reflect on the past and prepare your Utah home for the upcoming year. Whether you’re planning to sell, buying a new home, or just taking care of maintenance, getting your home ready for the new year will help you start off strong. This December housing checklist provides a comprehensive guide on how to get your home in top shape for the season ahead, covering everything from financial and tax preparations to real estate planning.

Do’s and Don’ts: Key Tips for December Home Prep

When preparing your Utah home for the new year, it’s crucial to focus on both practical and aesthetic improvements. Some tasks can help increase your home’s value or make it more appealing to potential buyers if you plan to sell, while others are essential for maintaining the home’s functionality.

Do’s: Essential Tasks to Complete

1. Check the Heating System- Utah winters can get bitterly cold, and nothing is worse than having your heating system fail in the middle of a snowstorm. Make sure your furnace or heating system is running efficiently by having it serviced. Replace air filters and clear any obstructions to ensure that warm air circulates effectively throughout your home.
2. Insulate Your Home- Proper insulation keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, making it a year-round investment. In December, inspect your attic and basement for any areas where insulation may have worn down or become damaged. Pay special attention to windows and doors, sealing any drafts to improve energy efficiency.
3. Clean Gutters - Clearing your gutters of leaves, twigs, and debris prevents water damage by ensuring that rain and melting snow flow freely. If you’re planning to list your home for sale in the coming months, this simple maintenance task can enhance your home’s curb appeal.
4. Prepare for Snow Removal- Utah winters can bring heavy snowfalls. Make sure you have the necessary equipment—such as a snow shovel or snow blower—and ice melt on hand to keep walkways and driveways safe. If you plan to sell your home in winter, buyers will appreciate knowing that the property is well-maintained.
5. Review Home Safety Systems- Take this time to check your home’s safety systems, including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Ensure that these are functioning correctly and up to date. Consider investing in a security system for extra peace of mind.

Don’ts: What to Avoid When Preparing Your Home

1. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute- Leaving tasks like cleaning gutters or inspecting your heating system until the last moment can lead to costly repairs. December can be a busy time with holidays and travel, so tackle these tasks early to avoid stress.
2. Don’t Neglect Landscaping- While it may be tempting to skip outdoor maintenance in the winter, a well-kept lawn and garden can still enhance your home’s curb appeal. Avoid neglecting any seasonal landscaping, such as trimming trees and bushes to prevent damage from snow or ice accumulation.
3. Don’t Skip a Deep Clean- A deep clean will not only make your home feel fresh and welcoming, but it also helps with maintenance by reducing dust buildup. Skip this task at your own risk, especially if you’re planning to sell. Clean homes sell faster and for higher prices.

Financial and Tax Preparations

December is a crucial time to get your finances in order for the upcoming year. Whether you plan to sell, buy, or simply want to make sure your finances are in good shape, there are several financial and tax considerations to keep in mind.

Preparing for Tax Season

1. Review Your Tax Records

Take time to review your tax records from the past year, especially if you’ve bought or sold a home. There may be potential deductions you can claim related to your mortgage interest, property taxes, or home office expenses. Consider consulting with a tax professional to make sure you’re taking full advantage of any available credits or deductions.

2. Plan for Property Tax Payments

In Utah, property taxes are typically due by November 30th, but it’s important to check if you’ve missed any payments. Take time in December to pay any outstanding property taxes or plan for the upcoming year’s taxes to avoid penalties.

3. Assess Your Budget for Home-Related Expenses

Evaluate your budget for any anticipated home-related expenses in the coming year. For example, if you’ve had an old roof or HVAC system for years, it might be time to plan for a replacement. Allocating money for home maintenance or improvements will ensure you’re prepared for these costs without unexpected surprises.

4. Consider Refinancing Your Mortgage

With interest rates fluctuating, December might be a good time to consider refinancing your mortgage if you haven't done so already. Refinancing can potentially lower your monthly payments or shorten the term of your loan, saving you money over time.

Financial Considerations for Selling or Buying a Home

1. Start Saving for a Down Payment

If you're planning to buy a home in the new year, it’s essential to start saving for your down payment. Research current mortgage rates in Utah to get an idea of what to expect for your monthly payments and begin setting aside funds.

2. Prepare Financial Documents for Lenders

Whether you’re selling or buying a home, get your financial documents in order. Lenders will want to see things like proof of income, tax returns, and your credit report. Having these ready can expedite the process and make it smoother when you’re ready to take the next step.