Once you have decided to sell your home, there are numerous things to consider, including any improvements needed to maximize the selling price. One common question among potential sellers is, “Do I need to replace my windows?”. Even more importantly, “What is my potential return on investment (ROI)?”. To help you decide if replacing windows is the right thing to do before putting your home on the market, here are some factors to consider.
Most Buyers Want Move-in Ready Homes
Although you may think differently if you’re a hardcore HGTV fan, buyers usually want a home they can move into without having to do a ton of work themselves. This means that if your windows are cracked, damaged, warped, or broken, it’s probably a good idea to go ahead and consider replacement windows. This also applies if your windows are drafty, difficult to open and close, or impossible to keep open. These are all signs that the windows are going to need to be replaced sooner rather than later, which could put potential homebuyers off. As a bonus, brand new, clean windows are gorgeous and enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Potential Buyers Are Looking for Energy Efficient Homes
Today, buyers are interested in saving money anywhere they can, especially on their monthly energy bill. If your windows are old, chances are good that they are inefficient which is reflected in your energy bill. By replacing your windows, particularly single pane windows, Energy Star reveals that you can cut your heating and cooling costs by 21% to 31% [1]. This, along with the reduction of the home’s carbon footprint, is a fact that prospective buyers are sure to appreciate.
You’ll See an Impressive Return on Investment
Window replacement is considered one of the highest ROIs on a remodel. According to a study conducted by the National Association of Realtors’, homeowners can expect to get around 73% of their window investment back when they sell. This is because replacement windows are a big-ticket item that buyers like to see. Window replacement is also one of the quicker and easier remodeling projects you can do before selling your home, allowing you to complete your sale and move on as soon as possible.
Your Home Will Stand Out in a Crowded Field
Chances are good that there are several homes in your neighborhood for sale, meaning that buyers have plenty to choose from. Replacing your old, dingy windows will help set your home apart from the competition. In addition to attracting potential buyers by improving your home’s overall exterior aesthetics, replacement windows also show value and efficiency. Of course, you want to make certain that the windows you select complement your home’s style, so they don’t look out of place.
If you are thinking about putting your home on the market, it is time to start looking into replacement windows and how they can help your home sell faster. Contact Vinyl Design for quality, affordable replacement windows.
[1] https://modernize.com/windows/energy-efficient
[2] http://time.com/money/4282356/replace-windows-need-to-know/
I thought you made an interesting point when you said that potential buyers are looking for homes that are energy efficient. My wife and I are planning on selling our home next month. We will have to look into having our windows replaced so that the home can be more energy efficient.
Thank you Dennis for your comments.