Smart homeowners know that it is important to consider the return on investment when prioritizing home improvements. When it comes to window replacement, homeowners get about 73-percent of their investment back when they resell their house, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2016 “Cost versus Value” study.

Reasons to Replace Windows

Windows play an essential role in any home, allowing natural light to enter your living space and offering appealing views to the outside world. Beyond improving your home’s appearance, there are other circumstances that may call for new windows, including:

Energy performance
If your windows do not provide a tight seal against the outside environment, you are paying a premium to heat or cool your home. The savings enjoyed by lower energy bills could more than offset the cost of replacing inefficient windows.

Maintenance
Windows may develop water leaks that lead to rotting frames, sashes, or sills. Moisture may accumulate between the panes, or the glass may have cracks. These are good reasons to replace one or more windows.

Safety
Windows that do not work properly may pose security concerns. Windows that do not close could make your home more vulnerable to break-ins; on the flip side, windows that will open completely may prevent you from escaping during an emergency.

According to RE/MAX Metro realtor Estelia Mesimer, homeowners should replace windows if the old windows will become an issue during the sale process, either because they will raise red flags during a buyer’s inspection or because they could negatively affect the listing price. Estelia warns “that not everyone is prepared to undertake the financial burden of such a project.”

How much value do new windows add to a home?

New windows can positively impact a buyer’s willingness to pay full asking price — or close to it. Here are a few more ways new windows might help you sell your home faster and for more money. https://www.zillow.com/sellers-guide/worth-replacing-windows-before-selling-a-house/

Turnkey advantage
Many buyers are looking for a move-in ready property that won’t require much work after closing. Moving into a turnkey home can be less stressful, and it minimizes the financial burden of doing improvements right after buying.

Energy efficiency
New energy-efficient windows are a great selling point. According to the Zillow Group Report, energy efficiency was ranked as extremely or very important to 56% of buyers. Make sure to promote new windows and any other energy-efficient upgrades in your listing description. Savvy buyers will note the type of windows you’ve installed. Wood and vinyl tend to be more energy efficient than aluminum, and casement windows are more resistant to air leaks. They may also look for insulated windows or those with special coatings. If you install windows that are Energy Star-rated, your buyers can expect to save, on average, $126-$465 per year in energy costs compared to single-pane windows, and $27-$100 per year compared to double-pane clear glass windows.

Updated appearance
The benefits of new windows aren’t only functional. New windows can also be a cosmetic improvement, especially if you’re planning on painting or replacing the trim. They can also have a positive impact on curb appeal. Whether they’re searching for homes online or driving through your neighborhood, how your home looks from the street can make or break a buyer’s first impression.

Soundproofing
Newer windows can help block out noise, depending on the type of windows you choose. If you live near a train, an airport or a busy street, replacing windows with laminated glass, double-pane or triple-pane windows can ease buyers’ worries.

Alternatives to new windows before selling

If you plan to sell and don’t want to replace every window in the house, consider these more cost-effective options. https://www.zillow.com/sellers-guide/worth-replacing-windows-before-selling-a-house/

• Replace some windows
• Replace only damaged or broken windows or any that are serious eyesores.
• Add energy-efficient solar film
• Apply solar film to older windows to block UV rays and improve energy efficiency.
• Add new caulking or weather-stripping
• Caulking and weather-stripping wear out over time, so replacing can help minimize air leaks, something home inspectors usually check for.

To learn ways to best prepare your home to appeal to today’s buyers, please contact Estelia at Estelia@Estelia.com or call her 727.686.2859. She has been a trusted real estate partner for buyers and sellers of residential properties for over 20 years.

St. Petersburg Communities
Allendale Terrace
Bahama Shores
Bayway Isles
Coquina Key
Crescent Heights
Crescent Lake
Downtown
Greater Pinellas Point
Historic Kenwood
Historic Old Northeast
Historic Roser Park
Historic Uptown
Isla del Sol
Old Southeast
Placida Bayou
Snell Isle

If you’re interested in any of these of communities or live in one and are thinking of selling, give the Mesimer Team a call.