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Now that we’re approaching the last quarter of the year, no doubt you can see that many of your resolutions for 2011 have gone unresolved. Most New Year’s resolutions are all about home, have you taken care of it as it always takes care of you?

If you have lingering financial matters that need to be wrapped up before year-end, know is the time to address them.

1. Did you take advantage of the federal tax credit for energy-efficient home improvements? You may yet find deals reducing the cost of windows, roofing, A/C, and others. Always consider how a product will benefit your home overall before investing; including energy-bill savings and the time it will take you to recoup the price.

2. Through difficult economic times it makes financial sense to pass on impulse or luxury buys in favor of a long-term investment. If you resolved to improve your home, you still have time to complete at least one satisfactory project. Just choose renovations that will add the most value to your home. For the greatest resale value, when the housing market picks up, the kitchen is the place to start.

3. If this year’s rainy season has taught us anything it’s that rain gutters are a good investment. When rain water pours off your roof and onto the ground around the house you face potential damage to your foundation. Don’t wait until next year’s rainy season approaches before handling this resolution.

4. Don’t wait to repair. By fixing a problem as it comes to your attention, you can avoid letting the issue become bigger than it ever had to be. When you spot a drop, address it. Same goes for the crack that’s continuing to creep across the floor or wall. Even if you don’t have the time to handle the problem yourself, hire help. You’ll save money in the long-run.