We haven't mentioned it much, but new windows and doors can also improve energy efficiency so much that some folks go further and install smaller AC units or enjoy other cost savings. When we upgraded, our HVAC guy noted our house might even be slightly overpowered on AC now that it's tighter. Not suggesting anyone downsize their AC immediately, but just an anecdote on how much of a difference these envelope upgrades can make.
Anyway, I'm getting off-topic. Point is, windows (and doors) do a lot for a home here in Tampa Bay. Clearly, many of us who've done it have seen benefits beyond just dollars and cents.
A thought on timing and market conditions: in the crazy seller's market of 2021-2022, you could get away with selling a home that needed some work (like old windows) because buyers were accepting anything. But in today's market, with higher interest rates and buyers being a bit more choosy, having those updates done could make a bigger difference. Buyers might not have as much cash on hand after closing (since their mortgage costs more now), so a house that doesn't need immediate window replacements is even more attractive to them.
I'll add that after I installed new windows, my home's interior felt less humid and sticky, especially in the summer. The old windows would sometimes get condensation and I suspect they let moisture creep in. With the new ones, the climate inside is more controlled. That means less chance of mildew or that musty smell that some older Florida homes get in the humid months. I'm sure any buyer walking into a fresh, dry-feeling home is going to have a better impression.
Replying to @journalist63, I experienced the same. The indoor humidity dropped noticeably once I upgraded my windows. It just feels fresher inside, and I don't have to run the dehumidifier as much. Little things like that add up.
If someone can't afford to replace their windows before selling, what's the best way to make the most of what they have? For example, my friend is selling her house with early 2000s windows she can't fully replace right now. Would you recommend she at least repairs any issues, repaints the window trim, replaces old screens, etc.? Basically, how can you make older windows less of a turn-off to buyers if you can't actually swap them out?
Good question, @philosophy119. If new windows aren't in the cards, definitely do a tune-up on the existing ones:
Fix any broken glass or cracked panes.
Repair or replace weatherstripping to reduce drafts.
Lubricate the tracks so they open smoothly (buyers do test them during showings).
Clean the glass till it's sparkling, and clean out the tracks (no dead bugs or dirt accumulation).
Replace any torn screens; new screens are cheap and make the windows look cared-for.
A fresh coat of paint or caulk around the frames (if wooden) can cover up signs of age and prevent any leaks.
Basically, you want to show that even if the windows aren't brand new, they've been well-maintained. I did this on a rental property I sold and it helped a lot — no complaints about the windows because they at least functioned and looked decent.
I took a similar approach before deciding to replace my windows. I had cleaned and recaulked everything and it did make the old windows look nicer. Honestly, if your friend can address all the cosmetic and functional issues like @echow98 outlined, the windows won't stand out as much in a negative way. That said, if a buyer brings up that they're older, she should be prepared that they might factor that into their offer. She could consider offering a small credit for future upgrades, but only if it becomes an issue.
I'm curious, has anyone done a partial window replacement? Like, only replacing the front-facing windows for curb appeal or only the most problematic ones? My budget is limited, and I'm wondering if doing half the windows now and half later (or leaving some older ones) is a viable strategy for resale.
I've seen people take the partial replacement route, but it can be a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, if you replace the most visible windows (say the front of the house), it definitely improves curb appeal. Buyers walking up will see those shiny new windows and that sets a positive tone. However, once they walk inside and see older windows in other rooms, they might feel the job was left incomplete.
In my experience, if you can't do them all, at least do all of one type or area. For example, replace all the front and side windows that are easily seen, and maybe leave the back ones if they're not obvious (and if they're in okay condition). Be ready to explain that you replaced X number of windows and suggest maybe a credit or plan for the rest.
We ended up doing our house in two phases: first phase was all the bedrooms and front of the house, second phase (a year later) was the kitchen and back. We told our eventual buyer exactly that, and even gave them the info for the window company in case they wanted to finish anything else down the line. It worked out because by the time we sold, basically everything was done.
I also did my replacement in stages due to budget constraints. First year I did the downstairs windows, second year the upstairs. When selling, all were new by then, but if I had sold in between, at least half the house had new ones and I'd have been honest about why. I think buyers appreciate when you're upfront. Some might not mind finishing the project if most of it's done, especially if you knock a little off the price or something. But ideally, doing them all at once is best for a wow factor.