Now is the perfect month to handle a few quick tasks that can save you money, speed up a future sale, and reduce stress when the rain starts. Here’s a short, Houston-focused checklist you can knock out in a weekend.

1. File (or Update) your Homestead Exemption

If you lived in your home on January 1, you can file a homestead exemption for this tax year. Most counties accept filings now through April 30. It lowers your taxable value and often adds caps on annual increases.

Do this now

• Verify your driver’s license address matches the property address.
• File online with your county appraisal district (Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, etc.).
• If you qualify, add any special exemptions (over-65, disability, disabled veteran, surviving spouse).
• Save the confirmation page to your records.

Why it matters: It’s free to file, reduces your tax bill, and helps protect you from sharp increases in assessed value.

2. Review your Flood Zone & Insurance Early

Houston weather can change fast, and many carriers have waiting periods for new flood policies (commonly 30 days).

Do this now

• Look up your current flood zone and elevation; note any recent map updates.
• Ask your insurer to quote dwelling coverage that reflects today’s rebuild costs, not your purchase price.
• Consider endorsements many owners forget: sewer backup, foundation/water coverage, wind/hail deductibles that fit your risk tolerance.
• If you remodeled or added square footage in 2025, update your policy so you’re properly covered.

Why it matters: Getting quotes now avoids delays during storm season and helps you budget accurately.

3. Organize Foundation & Roof Documentation

Houston buyers routinely ask for proof of condition or repair. Having it ready makes inspections smoother and builds confidence in your home.

Create a simple “Sale-Ready” folder with

• Engineering reports or foundation evaluations (even “no action needed” letters).
• Repair invoices, scopes of work, and transferable warranties (foundation, roof, HVAC).
• Before/after photos for any major repair or remodel.
• Permit records and final inspections, if applicable.
• Annual roof check notes or a roofer’s written opinion (especially after major storms).

Why it matters: Clean paperwork shortens negotiations, reduces re-trades, and can help you defend value.

How The Sumbera Team can help (free, no pressure)

• Homestead help: We’ll point you to the correct county portal and double-check your documents.
• Insurance sanity check: We’ll help you outline coverage questions to ask your agent and share local vendor intros.
• Sale-ready file: We’ll build a digital folder for your foundation/roof docs and flag any gaps a buyer might question.
• Timing and value: If you’re considering a 2026 move, we’ll provide a comp-based value check and a simple prep plan so you can choose what to do—and what to skip.

Want a one-page January checklist and a personal plan for your address? Send your timeline and we’ll tailor it to you.

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