If you are thinking about selling your home, windows can have a big impact on buyers because they are one of the most prominent features of your home and also one of the most expensive to replace. If they are well maintained they reflect that your home has been well maintained. If they are in disrepair some buyers may walk away or ask for a significant price reduction to compensate.
So, does this mean you should replace your windows? Replacing windows can be a costly undertaking. Here are some signs it may be time to repair or replace your windows.
- Windows are hard to open, close, lock
- Windows feel drafty
- You see signs of moisture and mildew on the windows
- You have single pane windows
- Windows are hard to clean
- Replacement parts are discontinued or hard to find
- You are seeing an increase in your energy bill – new windows could cut energy costs by 10-20%
- You hear lots of outside noise even when the windows are closed
- Windows are no longer worth the cost of repair
- They look bad
New windows are tempting because they offer smoother operation, lower maintenance, energy savings, fewer drafts and easier cleaning. But they are also expensive. Only you can determine if it is worth the cost.
In our current Twin Cities market sellers can expect up to a 70% return on investment for new windows. Even more important, it can make a difference on how quickly your home sells… or if it sells at all for the price it should command.