Is It Worth Replacing Windows Before Selling a House?

December 21, 2023

west chester home before and after siding and windows You have enough on your plate when it comes to selling a house. Finding a realtor, packing your things, making sure it is ‘show-ready’. The last thing you may want to think about is home renovations. It may seem like a waste of time and money, but replacing your windows before you sell could make a big difference in your sale price.

In a recent 2021 survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, energy-efficient windows were ranked desirable by 89% of home buyers. Replacement windows retain 68.5% of their value for resale, which makes them an economical home upgrade whether you decide to sell or decide to stay. On the flip side, if your windows are not energy efficient or have seen better days – it may drastically decrease your equity or cause your home to stay on the market longer since home buyers desire these upgrades.

Reasons To Replace Windows

Older windows might deter buyers away from your home if they’re looking for a move-in ready or an energy-efficient home. But, this isn’t the only time you should consider replacing your windows. You should consider replacing your windows if:

  • Your windows are Inoperable. This includes windows with broken glass, latches, locks, and springs.
  • Your windows are older and don’t block UV rays are harmful to your skin. These types of windows create more heat in your home. This makes your heating and cooling system work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. It’s estimated you can save around 15% per month on your electric bill.
  • You have drafty windows. Older windows are less efficient due to their design and let more of a draft in. But after some time all windows can start letting a draft through.

Tax Benefits

If the above perks weren’t enough – you can also get some great tax benefits if you replace your windows. If you haven’t used tax credit in the past, you may qualify for a credit for up to 30% of the product costs (up to $600). Feel free to ask us about any available tax credits.

How Much Value Do New Windows Add to a Home?

The value that new, energy-efficient windows add to a home will vary depending on a variety of factors – including style of window replacement and their energy rating, quality of installation, type of home, size of home, etc. The most important thing to remember – however – is not necessarily how much window replacements will add to your home value, but that it will give you a return on investment in some capacity.

The Cost of New Windows

WindowsThere is no way to accurately price windows over the internet, but you can come close using tools like the Remodeling Magazine Cost vs Value report. When doing this, it’s important to understand that prices may vary. Prices may differ because labor expenses may vary from house to house, based on the existing conditions. Also, prices can differ depending on the style of the window the homeowner chooses. For more information about pricing new windows, check out our blog “How Much Do New Windows Cost”.

When In Doubt, Reach Out

The best way to get the ‘real numbers’ from your home improvements is by contacting the Milanese Remodeling team. We can give you quotes for different window upgrades that take into account your goals and your budget. We can even recommend windows that will improve your home value when and if you decide to sell. Depending on the condition of your windows, investing in this kind of home improvement is almost always a good idea. Not only will quality windows save you money on your energy bill, but provide added security and comfort for your family.