Investing in home improvements is a common strategy for homeowners looking to enhance the value of their property. Among other potential upgrades, new windows have gained significant attention in recent years.
It’s not very often we receive enquiries from customers looking to replace their windows only as a way of increasing the value of their home! But understanding whether or not your new window investment will return to you, definitely acts as a sweetener to the process.
The factors that determine home value…
Before delving into the specific impact of new windows, let’s talk a bit about the various factors that contribute to a home”s value.
Several key elements play a significant role in the value of your home. Think location, size, condition, age, architectural style, amenities, and overall market conditions. While new windows can potentially influence a home\’s value, they\’re just one piece of the puzzle.
1. New windows enhance energy efficiency.
One of the most compelling arguments for installing new windows is their potential to improve energy efficiency.
Modern window technologies significantly reduce heat loss during the winter and minimise heat gain during the summer. Energy-efficient windows contribute to lower utility bills, enhanced comfort, and reduced environmental impact. These features, whilst not directly tied to home value, can attract potential buyers who prioritise energy efficiency. Something referred to as the perceived value of a property.
As an aside, we came across an interesting stat from the latest survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors that we wanted to share with you. 61% of estate agents and surveyors reported that homes with high energy efficiency \”aren\’t suffering from the same price falls\” as those without.
This means buyers are avoiding older properties in favour of new, due to the energy efficiency of newer properties. That tells us that even if you live in an old property, installing new windows (and doors) will help you avoid the same price falls as old properties with old windows and doors.
NB: Not to state the obvious but, if your current windows don’t need replacing, don\’t replace them. Even if they aren’t as energy efficient as the ‘newer models’, it’s decidedly NON energy efficient to replace windows with years left in them, for the sake of ‘being more energy efficient!’
2. New windows improve kerb appeal.
Everybody knows that the visual appeal of a home plays a pivotal role in determining its value and saleability. New windows can play a big part in that through transforming the exterior aesthetics and enhancing the overall kerb appeal.
Additionally, windows that are well-maintained and look great may positively influence a buyer’s perception of the property’s overall condition.
3. Changing the design of your windows can enhance natural light and views.
Natural light and scenic views are highly sought-after features in a home.
New windows can maximise natural light entry (especially if you choose aluminium windows), creating a brighter and more inviting living space. When potential buyers are viewing your home on a dull day and your home is still bright and airy, they won’t forget that in a hurry!
Depending on what style of windows you choose, improved views can also be achieved by utilising larger glass surfaces, thus framing the surroundings more effectively.
Both things definitely contribute towards enhancing the overall ambiance of a home, increasing its appeal to prospective buyers.
4. New windows contribute to noise reduction.
Noise pollution can be a significant concern for homeowners, particularly those living in busy urban areas or near high-traffic zones.
New windows, especially those with superior soundproofing properties, can minimise external noise infiltration, creating a more peaceful and tranquil living environment.
While this feature may not directly impact the value of your home, it can be an appealing selling point for buyers seeking serenity and is something that’ll be taken note of during a viewing.
5. New windows keep out the weather.
It sounds like a pretty basic requirement of windows, but this is where old windows fall short. You know what isn’t a good look to potential buyers? Being able to hear the wind whistling through gaps in your windows and feeling a cold breeze every time you pass.
Cost vs. value Considerations.
When weighing up the impact of new windows on home value, it really helps to consider the cost:benefit ratio. However, you need to keep in mind that the cost of installing new windows varies. It depends on factors such as window type, materials, size, and installation complexity.
There is one thing we stand by, though: you get what you pay for. If you’re keen to install windows that’ll give you a return on your investment but you aren’t looking to move any time soon, you want windows that will look as good in several years’ time as they do today.
When all is said and done, new windows can potentially increase the value of your home for various reasons. Enhanced energy efficiency, improved kerb appeal, increased natural light, and noise reduction all have an impact on value. Not to mention that all are also desirable features for potential buyers.
It’s really important to remember that the impact of new windows on home value is just one component among many factors. Besides, we believe that new windows are about more than adding value to your property. When chosen right, they’ll be something for you to enjoy and to feel proud of, and isn’t that worth something!
