If you’re looking to sell your home, you may be looking at its old windows and wondering if you should replace them before hanging up your “For Sale” sign. As with many things in life, the answer is clear: “Maybe.”
There’s no doubt that new windows add curb appeal to a home, and the improved insulation they provide can increase comfort and reduce energy costs. And yes, homebuyers value them, too: According to real estate technology platform HomeLight, turnkey properties—those that require little to no repairs or remodeling—tend to sell faster than those that require more work.
However, it is important to weigh the potential benefits against the costs and avoid overspending on improvements to a home you will no longer live in. Here are some tips to help you make your decision.
Inspect your windows
Finding out the status of your current windows is step number one. You have no choice but to replace them if their frames are broken, they don’t open or close properly, or they’re too drafty to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
If none of these conditions apply, you can improve the curb appeal of your windows with minor renovations or upgrades. Applying solar film to old windows can improve energy efficiency at a fairly modest cost. (Approximately $20 to $200 per roll, depending on the properties of the film.) Solar film is made from thin layers of plastic or polymers and can improve heat retention in cold climates or reflect heat in hot weather, depending on the type, helping reduce heat and cooling costs.
Other cost-saving measures include sanding and painting chipped or faded wood frames.
and filling gaps in the caulking or seals of your windows. However, these measures can be time-consuming and require tools and materials that you may not have. And while replacing only broken or faulty windows can save money, it can also affect the appearance of the home—and the buyer’s opinion of it—if the renovation creates a patchwork of styles or materials that clash with the existing windows.
Choose the right materials
Materials greatly influence the cost of replacement windows and the curb appeal they add to your home. Here’s a brief description of two commonly used window materials, with notes on their pros and cons and the value they bring to your home.
Vinyl windows
The average replacement cost for a set of ten 3′ x 5′ double vinyl windows is $21,264. The added resale value is $14,270, which means you’ll recoup about 67% of the original cost when you sell the home, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Value and Value report.
Pros:
- Cheaper than wooden windows.
- Better ROI
- Virtually no maintenance required
Cons:
- Less durable
- May become deformed over time
- May not be available in unique shapes or sizes.
- Not environmentally friendly
Wooden windows
Wood window replacements are more expensive, with the national average cost being $25,799 for the same number and size of windows as listed above. According to Remodeling Magazine, the resale value is $16,222, which means you’ll recoup nearly 63% of the original cost.
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Can be repainted and polished
- recyclable
Cons:
- Require periodic maintenance (eg regular lubrication or waxing).
- Susceptible to rot, water damage and warping.
- Lower ROI
Of course, the actual replacement cost will depend on how many new windows you install and their size. If you want high-end or custom windows, as is the case with historic homes, you can expect costs to be much higher. Consult with window specialists to get cost estimates using different materials and understand what budget you’ll need.
New windows or not?
The resale value calculations above confirm that new windows for your soon-to-be-sold home are no easy task, at least from a financial perspective. However, updating your windows can add value to your home in other ways.
Occupancy appeal
One of the main benefits is increasing the home’s curb appeal: a modern and well-maintained home is an advantage for potential buyers looking for a property that doesn’t require extensive renovations.
Energy Saving
Installing energy-efficient windows can help lower your monthly utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing old windows with Energy Star-rated windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by 7 to 15 percent, resulting in annual savings of $70 to $500.
Soundproofing
Busy areas can be noisy. Replacing your old single pane windows with laminated, double or triple pane windows will help eliminate unwanted sounds.
Home Security
Burglars looking for an easy target often look at windows to see how easy they are to break into. The material your windows are made of can make your home difficult to access. Double or triple glass is more difficult to break than single glass. Other materials, such as laminated or tempered glass, are even more difficult to break. If your home currently has old single pane glass, replacing it with newer materials will provide greater security.
Consult with professionals
Your home is your pride and joy, so you want to show it in the best possible light when you put it on the market. But before you decide to update your windows or make any other improvements to your home before selling, be sure to consult with a trusted Realtor. They can help you decide which upgrades are most likely to get you a higher price, speed up the sale, or, preferably, both.
Likewise, if the decision to replace or simply improve your windows is unclear, it is wise to contact a professional. A window expert, such as a home inspector or installation specialist, can answer all your questions and help you map out the best course of action.