Year-End Homeowner Checklist: Real Estate Moves to Maximize Savings”

As the year winds down in Snohomish County, you might be focused on holidays and time with family, but it’s also a prime opportunity to make year-end real estate moves that could put money back in your pocket. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or seller, smart decisions before December 31 can lead to real estate tax savings, increased equity, and better positioning for the year ahead.

Why Year-End Planning Pays Off

Timing matters, especially in real estate and personal finance. The final weeks of the year offer unique advantages:

• Tax-saving opportunities: Deductions and credits tied to real estate must be finalized before January 1.

• Seasonal market benefits: Fewer listings mean less competition for sellers and more motivated buyers.

• Mortgage and insurance reviews: The end of the year is a great time to re-evaluate and optimize your financial commitments.

7 Year-End Real Estate Moves That Could Save You Money

1. Prepay Property Taxes or Mortgage Interest

If you itemize deductions, prepaying your property tax or January’s mortgage interest could lower your 2025 tax bill. Make sure the Snohomish County Assessor has issued the bill before paying in advance, and check whether this approach benefits your specific tax situation.

2. Make an Extra Mortgage Payment

An additional mortgage payment in December, applied toward loan principal, reduces your total interest and helps build home equity faster. Over time, this can shorten your loan by several years and save you thousands.

3. Refinance or Cancel PMI

Check your current mortgage interest rate. If it’s significantly higher than today’s rates, refinancing could save you hundreds each month. Also, if your home’s value has risen (common in many Snohomish neighborhoods), you may qualify to remove private mortgage insurance (PMI)—freeing up cash monthly.

Tip: Use our Home Valuation tool to estimate your current property value.

4. Invest in Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Upgrading to ENERGY STAR appliances, windows, insulation, or HVAC systems can reduce your utility bills and qualify you for federal energy-efficiency tax credits, up to $3,200 per year. Act now to lock in the benefits on your 2025 tax return.

5. Take Advantage of Winter Buyer’s Market

Looking to buy? With fewer buyers in the market, you may face less competition and enjoy more negotiation power. Serious sellers may offer better pricing or cover some closing costs. Use this to your advantage before the spring market heats up.

Use our Neighborhood Guide to explore ideal areas before the year ends.

6. Consider Listing During the Holidays

Fewer listings mean your home can stand out. Motivated buyers, especially those relocating for work, are actively searching in winter. With the right listing strategy, you could sell quickly and for a competitive price.

7. Review Insurance and Household Expenses

Year-end is a smart time to shop for better homeowners insurance, check for bundling discounts, or eliminate unused services. Small savings here can add up to hundreds annually.

Also review your property tax assessment. If your home value seems overstated, gather comps and prep for the 2026 appeal window.

FAQ: Common Year-End Real Estate Questions

Q1: Should I buy a home during the holidays?
Yes, buyers can benefit from less competition and better deals. Sellers during this season are often motivated.

Q2: What home upgrades qualify for tax credits?
Upgrades like insulation, smart thermostats, and ENERGY STAR-rated systems. Learn more from EnergyStar.gov.

Q3: How do I know if I should itemize deductions?
If your combined deductions (mortgage interest, property taxes, donations) exceed the standard deduction, itemizing may save you more.

Q4: Is refinancing still worth it in late 2025?
If interest rates are lower than what you're paying now, yes. It could also allow you to remove PMI if your home has gained value.

Q5: Can I still appeal my property assessment?
You can’t appeal for the current year after deadlines have passed, but start preparing now for the next appeal window in early 2026.

Final Thoughts: Take Action Before the Ball Drops

A few strategic moves now can lead to significant savings and stronger real estate footing next year. Whether you're buying, selling, or staying put, the end of the year is your chance to reset and maximize your investments.

Need help mapping out your next real estate step? Contact The Serviss Group for your complimentary year-end consultation today. Let’s close out 2025 with confidence and clarity.