2025 To-Do List: Homeowner Binder
Creating a home binder keeps your essential documents organized, easily accessible, and can help you save money during tax time or when selling your home. You can either create a physical one and put it in a safe place (such as your go-bag in case of an emergency/evacuation) or scan every item listed and keep it somewhere electronically protected.
Include the following:
Purchase Documents: Closing statement, purchase contract, title, deed, mortgage paperwork
Insurance Policies: Homeowners, flood, earthquake, umbrella
Property Tax Records: Annual bills & payment receipts
Home Improvements & Repairs: Receipts, invoices, permits, photos, contractor contacts
Warranties & Manuals: Appliances, HVAC, roofing, major systems
Maintenance Records: Service dates for HVAC, roof, pest, landscaping, pool, etc.
HOA Documents: CC&Rs, payment records, meeting notes
Utility Information: Account numbers, provider contacts
Why it matters:
Supports insurance claims
Simplifies refinancing & estate planning
Helps establish your cost basis for capital gains tax when selling
Saves time during home sale preparation
A HUGE advantage to doing this now is when you eventually sell your home. I see many clients not having evidence of their home improvements and it’s lost dollars they should’ve been able to keep. Set up your binder now for peace of mind later.
A HUGE advantage to doing this now is when you eventually sell your home. I see many clients not having evidence of their home improvements and it’s lost dollars they should’ve been able to keep. Set up your binder now for peace of mind later.
