New double glazing to add value before sale or not?

peterf83

Hi,

We’re looking to move in the next 18 months. I am currently debating whether it’s worth doing. The windows definitely need replacing, they’re first generation 30 years old or so. Am I likely to make the money back when selling or should I just leave them as they are now?

davidmcn

You won't make the money back. Might make it more attractive to buyers though.

When you say "need" replacing, what condition are they actually in?

walwyn1978

What is the cost of replacing them all? Is your house price taking into account the current condition of your windows?

My gut reaction even without knowing the answers is that you’ll not see a return on the money spent so I wouldn’t, UNLESS the current windows are so bad you feel they’re putting off buyers, in which case uou may want to consider it. But, hypothetically: if replacement of all windows is (say) £12k and you don’t do it, but know you would take 10k off the agreed sale price if a survey flagged the windows, then again I’d leave it as you’re up 2k (obviously figures are fictional but you get the idea)

babyblade41

So close to marketing I wouldn't bother just price to take in the costs of replacing.

I would have thought you would get a lot of interest if the price is correct and when potential purchasers view they will see it's quite obvious and not worry as the price is cheap.

However if you do decide to do it stay away from the fancy ads " buy the front get the back free" type as they will be well over priced

peterf83

Thanks for the quick replies.

The windows need replacing due to some not shutting properly and condensation has got into the insides.

We had the front and back door done when we moved in so it’s just the windows to be done.

I might get a quote to see what I can get them for. I think you’re all right in suggesting it’s probably not going to make much difference to the value.

babyblade41

If it's any help I am in the process of buying a 1930's property that has aluminium windows and there's quite a few of them
Property is dated throughout and needs, not gutting but certainly updating and the windows are secondary
The house had one offer within a week and I had to up mine by another 10k to stop viewing and proceed

Slithery

peterf83 wrote: »

and condensation has got into the insides

Depending on the frames if it's just a blown double-glazing unit these can usually be cheaply replaced without needing new frames.

tacpot12

The problem with closing them should be a relatively simple fix, but I would pay someone to do them if there are more than a couple. Similarly with replacing the blown units (the ones with condensation).

A local double glazing firm should be able to fix quite a few problem windows for £2000 and for a lot less trouble than replacing all the windows. Replacing them all won't affect the price as much as it should, so it's not worth you replacing them.

Only if they have wooden frames and the majority of the frames are in poor condition would it be worth replacing the entire windows.

trailingspouse

Agree with previous posters - not worth you doing it this close to moving. BUT - don't price it to take account of the new owners doing the work. Price the house at whatever is sensible, and then be prepared to drop the price if needed. If you price low to start with and then a buyer wants a reduction, you'll have nowhere to go. So start high and leave yourselves a bit of wriggle room.

SandraX

Hey

A few questions please.

Value of property as it is.
Type of property eg bungalow, townhouse, eot, etc.
conditon inside ie how old kitchen bathroom, decor.
Area is it desirable.
Approx price of windows
I may then be able to give you an idea.

Having stated the above as windows dont close properly many wont notices but will not the mist so possibly a few quid on a demist?

ATB

vw100

New windows will help it sell quicker, so factor that in - if you need a quick sale because you found a property it will help. Or if you reduce the price accordingly you might have to reduce it a bit more. Swings and roundabouts. Then again anything that is priced well will sell when it comes to real estate.


If you do get new windows, don't forget the Fensa certificate or building regulations approval - otherwise might cause a bit of a delay when it comes to selling as the lenders surveyor if is brought with a mortgage will pick this up no doubt. If not Fensa, then indemnity insurance route via solicitor. If the buyer is full of anxiety among other things could mean a lost sale.