Did you know that you can improve your home’s resale value with energy efficient replacement windows?
When you’re considering placing your home on the market, you are most often thinking of how to make smart upgrades that will yield a return on your investment. Because windows enhance a home’s visual appeal as well as make it more functional, replacement windows are high on every buyer’s wish list.
In my years of experience with Zen Windows Austin, I’ve helped thousands of homeowners replace their windows so they could earn top dollar from their sale. It’s all about understanding why you’ll improve your home’s resale value when you install new windows.
Here are some of the top reasons that you will benefit from upgrading to energy efficient replacement windows before your realtor hangs up that “for sale” sign. Read on to learn why buyers get excited to tour homes with recently upgraded windows.
6 Reasons That Replacement Windows Have a Positive Impact on Homebuyer Perception
Low-E coatings
Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings on new windows do a couple of great things for your home.
First, the coating helps to block out unnecessary damage from ultra-violet rays. Over time, UV rays beat through old style windows and can fade your furnishings, flooring, and walls. Those touring homes don’t want to see faded spots on the walls or floors. For some, the thought of replacing windows can send them fleeing.
Second, the nature of low-E windows assists in locking the HVAC treated air inside your home and the untreated air sealed out. This ensure the home maintains a nice and comfortable temperature throughout.
Reduce HVAC-related costs
Because low-E assists in minimizing the amount of ultraviolet and infrared waves that penetrate into your house, your home will be protected from the need for your HVAC unit to run as frequently. Thus, you’ll experience lowered HVAC-related costs during the time you remain in your home. And, you’ll be able to pass that savings on to the new homeowners.
Let’s take that scenario just a little bit further. The more frequently your HVAC system must work, the sooner it will need repairs or even replaces. Like any mechanical equipment, it’s prone to breakdown when under constant stress. New windows can save money not only on energy-related costs but also on your physical HVAC equipment. That should give some peace of mind to any house hunter.
A more appealing and brighter space
A well-staged home will sell faster and for a higher price. Consider new windows a way to illuminate every inch of your staged home. This brighter space will appear larger, brighter, and more appealing to buyers.
Highlight the outdoors
Show off an amazing outdoor space through the comfort of inside the home. Windows can accentuate or show off incredible views. Use them to your advantage and to entice buyers.
Added security
Homebuyers will not be likely to purchase a home that feels “unsafe,” especially if they are single or have young children in the home.
Unfortunately, older windows frequently have locks that are failing, wood frames that can be kicked in, or other reason to cause homebuyers to feel apprehensive about the security of your home. Give them a feeling that the home is safe and secure by spending your renovation budget on replacement windows.
Easier to operate
When a buyer is touring your home, he or she is testing everything. They’re poking in closets, slamming cabinet doors to see how solid they close, and opening windows. If your windows are difficult to open, that’s going to send a red flag to a prospective buyer that they will be saddled with an enormous repair bill in the not-too-distant future.
You will eliminate that buyer objection before it comes to pass when you upgrade your windows.
The Bottom Line
Once you’ve made that final decision to upgrade to energy efficient replacement windows to attract buyers, be sure to choose windows that are traditional and will enhance the exterior of the home without detracting from your landscaping.
Also, be sure to hire only qualified window installers to complete the task. This is not a DIY job or a time to cut corners; window installation is a job best left to the pros.
About the Writer: Dan Hatcher owns/operates Zen Windows of Austin and has been in the home service business for more years than he wants to share. When he’s not installing windows, he loves to write articles to help educate consumers about windows and other home improvement projects.
