Is It Worth Replacing Windows Before Selling Your Home?

It's smart to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your property before you list it for sale. This will allow you to set a fair price and manage your expectations. For example, consider a complete replacement if your windows are damaged, old or inefficient. This will make your home more marketable and help you sell faster.

According to the Consumer Housing Trends Report 2018, sellers spend an average of 2.2 renovations to their homes in preparation to sell them. 79% make at least one improvement. A National Association of Home Builders survey found that 90% of home buyers consider energy-efficient windows to be desirable. This means that replacing windows could be a great place to invest your pre-listing improvements dollars.

Do I Need To Replace My Windows Before I Sell My House?

If you see the windows as a problem during the sale process, replace them. This is because they will raise red flags in a buyer's inspection and could adversely affect the listing price. Be prepared to take on a huge project.

It's expensive to replace windows. So before you decide if this is an important step, consider whether it's worth the cost.

When Should Windows Be Replaced?

Buyers looking for an energy-efficient or move-in-ready home might be discouraged by older windows. However, these are just a few reasons why you should replace your windows if you want to make your home more marketable.

Windows Not Working: Replace broken glass, latches, or springs with new windows.

Drafty Windows: Older windows may be less efficient due to how they were made, but as your home settles, all windows can let drafts through.

Inefficient Windows: Older windows don't block ultraviolet rays as effectively as newer windows. This means that they allow heat to pass more easily.

Can I Sell Without Having To Replace Them?

Older windows can still be sold on the open market. However, buyers should expect to negotiate for the replacement cost. This can be done in two ways:

Buyer Requests A Fix Before Closing: This is often a cheaper option for sellers because you can choose the installed type of windows.

A Buyer Requests A Credit To Buy New Windows: This is often the most expensive option because they may want a credit to cover premium windows. They will also be less likely to shop around for the best deal.

Cost To Replace Windows In A House Before It Is Sold

Doors and windows are the most expensive pre-listing repairs. Depending on the material, new windows can cost anywhere from $600-$900 per piece—the cost of removing old frames and windows from your home maybe $100.

Remodeling magazine's 2019 Cost vs. Value Report shows how much homeowners in the United States spend on window replacements.

Cost Of New Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows with vinyl frames or casings are more resistant to heat than wooden windows and cost less.

• Average national cost $16,802

• Average resale value: $12,332

• ROI: 73.4%

Cost Of New Wood Windows

Vinyl windows are less durable than wood windows, but they offer better thermal resistance.

• Average national cost: $20.526

• Average resale value: $14,530

• ROI: 70.8%

The majority of home improvements do not return 100%. For example, remodeling magazine's 2019 report states that there aren't any home improvements that will return every dollar.

Even if there is no great return on investment, pre-listing upgrades can make a difference in faster sales, higher selling prices, and smoother negotiations.

What Value Does A New Window Add To A House?

New windows can make it more likely that a buyer will pay the full asking price or even close to it. These are just a few of the many ways that new windows can help you sell your house faster and for more money.

• Turnkey Advantage

  Many buyers want a property that is ready to move in and won't need much work once it closes. A turnkey property can make moving easier and reduce the cost of making improvements after you buy.

• Energy Efficiency

  Energy-efficient windows can be a selling point. A report found that 56% of buyers rated energy efficiency as very or extremely important.

  Your listing description should include new windows and other energy-saving upgrades. Savvy buyers will notice the type of windows that you have installed. Vinyl and wood are generally more energy-efficient than aluminum, while casement windows are less susceptible to air leaks. They might also consider insulated windows and windows with special coatings.

  Energy Star-rated windows can be expected to reduce energy costs by $126 to $465 per year, compared with single-pane windows and $27 to $100 per year for double-pane clear windows.

• Redesigned Appearance

  New windows offer many benefits, not just functional. A new window can be used to make a cosmetic change, particularly if you plan to paint the trim or replace it. In addition, a new window can have a positive effect on curb appeal. Buyers can judge the appearance of your home from street level, whether they are searching online for homes or walking through your neighborhood.

• Soundproofing

  Depending on the type of window you choose, newer windows can block out noise. Laminated glass, double-pane, or triple-pane windows are great options for those who live near an airport, train station, or busy street.

Window Selection: Some Considerations

The true return on your utility costs is not as high considering the cost of windows. For example, if you spend $120 per month on utilities and get 15% off with new windows ($18/month), it will take you just over 46 years to break even.

Vinyl windows may be more cost-effective, but they can still preserve the character of your home. Vinyl windows should not be installed on an older or historic house.

Before You Sell, Consider Alternatives To New Windows

These are more economical options if you don't need to replace every window in your house when you sell.

• Some Windows Can Be Replaced

  Only replace broken or damaged windows.

• Add Energy-Efficient Solar Film

  Solar film can be applied to windows older than ten years to reduce UV rays and increase energy efficiency.

• Weatherstripping Or New Caulking Can Be Added

  Weatherstripping and caulking wear over time. Replacing them can help to reduce air leaks, something that home inspectors often check.