5 Real Estate Moves Marin County Homeowners Should Make Before the Year Ends

As the year winds down and the party calendar fills up (from cozy dinners to full-on fabulous soirées), it’s also the perfect moment to check in on your real estate plans. In Marin County, real estate is never just about timing the market — it’s about lifestyle, smart strategy, and being ready when opportunity knocks.

Whether you’re thinking of selling, buying, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, here are five smart real estate moves to make before the year ends.

1. Check Your Home’s Current Value (You Might Be Pleasantly Surprised)

Before we pop the champagne, let’s talk numbers.

Marin County home values can shift quietly — even when it doesn’t feel like much is happening. Knowing what your home is worth right now helps you:

• Plan a potential sale in the new year

• Understand your equity position

• Decide whether upgrading or buying another property makes sense

Think of this as your real estate “year-end balance sheet.” No pressure — just clarity.

2. Sellers: Start Planning Early (Spring Success Starts Now)

If selling is even a possibility next year, the end of the year is the perfect time to:

• Identify small updates that bring big returns

• Plan staging and photography ahead of the spring rush

• Avoid last-minute stress when inventory picks up

The best listings don’t happen overnight — they’re curated. A little preparation now can mean more offers, stronger pricing, and smoother negotiations later.

3. Buyers: Get Financially Party-Ready (Pre-Approval Is Your VIP Pass)

In Marin County, the best homes don’t sit around waiting.

Before the new year:

• Review your finances

• Talk to a lender about pre-approval

• Understand what price range truly feels comfortable

When the right home hits the market, being prepared lets you move confidently — and competitively — without scrambling.

4. Review Tax & Investment Opportunities Before the Clock Runs Out

Real estate and taxes go hand in hand, especially in California.

Before December 31:

• Talk with your tax professional about capital gains, deductions, or investment strategies

• Consider whether buying or selling now (or early next year) makes financial sense

• Explore rental or second-home opportunities if lifestyle or income is part of your plan

A quick conversation now can save you real money later.

5. Define Your Real Estate Goals for the New Year

This is my favorite one — because real estate should support the life you want to live.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want more space to entertain?

• A lock-and-leave lifestyle?

• A home that fits where life is heading next?

Marin County isn’t just where we live — it’s how we live. Getting clear on your goals now means we can hit the ground running in January.

Let’s Make Next Year Your Best Move Yet

Whether you’re hosting, attending, or dreaming about the next fabulous gathering in your future home, real estate is part of the story.

If you’d like a no-pressure conversation about buying, selling, or simply understanding your options in Marin County, I’d love to connect. Let’s make sure your next move is as smart — and stylish — as it is successful.

Cheers to what’s next 🥂