December always sneaks up on people. One minute you’re in summer mode and the next you’re gathering paperwork for your CPA. Whether you bought, sold, or managed a rental this year, the end of the year is the perfect moment to reset, organize, and get ahead of anything that could cost you time or money in 2026.

Start by pulling together your documents. Anyone who closed on a home in 2025 should already have their Closing Disclosure and settlement statement, but this is the time to make sure everything is in one place. Keep your receipts for upgrades, repairs, furnishings, and any work done at your short term rental. These details matter more than people realize when tax season arrives.

Rental owners need to take a close look at their expenses. So much gets forgotten until the last minute. Cleanings, updates, utilities, subscriptions, your mileage to and from the property, even décor and linens are often deductible. If you made improvements, talk to your CPA about how those items factor into depreciation or a cost segregation strategy. One conversation now can save you a significant amount later.

Insurance is another area people forget to revisit. The end of the year is a great time to review your policies and confirm your coverage actually matches the current replacement cost or value of your home. If you added new furnishings or completed renovations, make sure your policy reflects the updates.

Maintenance matters too. Coastal properties love preventative care. Get on the schedule for HVAC service in January, check dryer vents, and do any seasonal tasks that keep your home protected. January fills up quickly so booking now helps avoid delays.

Whether you are buying, selling, or just organizing for tax season, finishing strong in December makes the start of 2026 feel lighter and more intentional.