The December Homeowner Checklist You’ll Wish You Had Sooner

December comes with cozy socks, hot cocoa and a shocking number of Amazon packages on the porch. It’s also the perfect time for homeowners to knock out a few year-end tasks that make life a whole lot easier once January arrives. A little prep now can save money, stress and a future panic attack over missing tax paperwork.

Here’s the fast, screenshot-worthy checklist to wrap up before New Year’s:

✔️ The December Homeowner Checklist

Taxes and documents

• Receipts for energy-efficient upgrades

• Closing docs if you bought this year

• Mortgage interest statements

• Home office expense records (if applicable)

• Receipts for donated items

Winter maintenance

• HVAC tune-up

• Clean chimney (if you use it)

• Clear gutters

• Test smoke and CO detectors

• Replace furnace filters

• Wrap exposed pipes

• Check windows and doors for drafts

Insurance and planning

• Review insurance coverage

• Add upgrades or new valuables to policy

• Update or create a quick home inventory

• List 2025 house projects you already have in mind

That’s it. Nothing fancy. Just the essentials that protect your home, save money and help you walk into the new year feeling like the most put-together homeowner in Connecticut. Whether you’re staying put or planning a move in 2025, staying proactive now makes everything smoother later.

If you want help connecting with trusted local pros or you’re thinking about selling or buying in the new year, I’m always happy to chat even if you’re still finishing your hot cocoa.