If you’re planning on selling your home in the next few years, but your windows need to be replaced now, is it worth it to go ahead and replace them?
New windows help maximize curb appeal, give a positive first impression to homebuyers, boost energy efficiency, and increase the comfort of your home interior (particularly during our harsh winters!). The improved energy efficiency factor is especially important as 89% of homebuyers cite it as a priority when house shopping.
Let’s take a look at the return on investment you can expect with a new window upgrade.
How Will New Windows Impact My Home Sale?
Pre-listing home improvement dollars spent on window replacements can make your home sale move quicker and more smoothly.
The returns on energy-efficient windows tend to be highest in northern states where extreme temperatures have the largest impact on annual heating and cooling expenses. Homebuyers who want energy-efficient windows are looking for key features including:
- Low-E glass
- Double panes
- Argon gas between the panes
This means that all window replacements are not looked upon equally from a homebuyer’s perspective. Since ENERGY STAR-certified windows save you up to 12% more than other replacement windows, choosing an ENERGY STAR-rated window replacement is vital to you getting the best return on your investment (ROI) when you sell your home.
The ROI expected for vinyl windows (68.8%) and wood (67%) can make replacing them worth it.
Your home may sell quicker with new windows
Homebuyers love a move-in-ready home that they don’t have to upgrade themselves, saving them time, decreasing stress, and minimizing expenses. New windows can positively impact a buyer’s willingness to pay the full asking price.
Savvy buyers will note the type of windows you have installed, so be sure to include that in your listing description. Note that ENERGY STAR-rated windows will deliver significant savings on utility bills monthly.
Can I sell my home without replacing my faulty windows?
While replacing your windows is an investment, since most buyers and real estate professionals won’t overlook faulty windows and you have to disclose their condition, it’s important for you to weigh the decision in light of the fact that you will likely either pay now (by replacing them) or pay later (by giving a credit for new windows on your home sale).
You might as well pay now and enjoy your new windows until you decide to sell your home.
When to Replace Your Windows (Even if You Are Selling Soon)
Faulty windows may deter homebuyers looking for a move-in-ready home. And due to the extreme temperatures in Minnesota, buyers will not look favorably on the lack of energy efficiency old windows deliver.
Here are some of the situations when homeowners who may be selling in the next few years might be advised to replace their windows:
Are your windows stuck closed?
- If your current windows are inoperable, that’s a safety hazard, as you can’t open them to exit in case of a fire.
- If you have broken glass in your current windows, you’re compromising your home’s beauty and protection by leaving it unprotected.
- If there is broken hardware on your windows, you may be vulnerable to intruders and theft.
These are all reasons to get your windows replaced, even if you are selling your home soon.
Are your current windows letting in brisk drafts when it’s cold outside?
If it gets drafty near your windows, that’s evidence that their seals may be broken, or they may simply be outdated and less energy efficient due to their design. If this is happening with your current windows, they should be replaced before you list your home on the market.
Additional considerations
If you don’t feel comfortable replacing all of your windows, here are some additional ideas:
- You could replace the windows that need it the most—including damaged, inoperable, or unattractive windows that hinder your home’s appearance and safety.
- You could take other energy-saving measures such as adding fresh caulk, weatherstripping (home inspectors check for this), and installing new storm windows to your current windows.
Upgrade Your Twin Cities Area Home with Gorgeous New Windows
Are outdated windows leaving your home uncomfortably cold each winter? At Beissel Window and Siding, we are Marvin Windows Authorized Replacement Contractors and we install your windows with precision, ensuring they will provide the high performance they were made to deliver over their lifespan.
Discover how our window services can transform your Minnesota home.
