Whether you’re a new or long-time homeowner, you’re always looking for renovations that will improve the value and function of your home. Since many home renovation projects can be costly and time-consuming, it’s important to know which renovations will be worth your investment.

As they are one of the first things people notice about your home, windows can provide many immediate appeals. Do new windows increase home value? Yes, potentially – but it’s important to consider all factors when deciding to tackle this project.

Read on to find out more about how windows can affect your home’s value.

Time to Replace?

Window quality is one of the major things that home appraisers take into consideration when conducting an appraisal. Even without a home appraiser, you can take a look at the windows in your home and see if it’s time for an upgrade.

If your windows appear to be sticky, warped, or discolored, it may be time for replacements. Sticky or discolored windows are usually a sign that moisture has been seeping in, and your windows may be at risk for rot or decay.

If you’ve been noticing higher energy bills or air drafts near closed windows, your windows are likely leaking air. This energy inefficiency can cause dramatically more expensive energy bills, and it may be time for replacements.

Types of Windows

If you’ve decided it’s time for new home windows, it’s also time to learn more about the different types of windows. Advances in window technology have also improved the energy efficiency and durability of most window options. 

There are six traditional window styles:

1. Awning

Awning windows have hinges along the top and open at a vertical angle towards the outside. This type has lower rates of air leaks than a sliding window.

2. Casement

Similar to an awning window, casement windows have hinges along the side. Like a door, casement windows open at a horizontal angle towards the outside. This type of window, like the awning, also has lower rates of air leaks.

3. Hopper

Like the opposite of the awning window, hopper windows have hinges along the bottom and open towards the interior. Similar to both the awning and casement, hopper windows have lower rates of air leakage.

4. Fixed

As the name might imply, this window type does not open. This window type is generally airtight and not prone to leakage. 

5. Single- or Double-hung

This window type opens by sliding vertically. In single-hung windows, only one sash slides open. In double-hung, both sashes slide open. This type of window is highly prone to air leakage.

6. Single- or Double-sliding

Like the single- and double-hung window types, the sashes in this window type slide horizontally rather than vertically.  This type is also prone to air leakage.

Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest emerging trends for home buyers is energy-efficient windows. When you realize that windows contribute around 25-30% of a home’s heating and cooling, it becomes evident how important the windows are. It’s easy to see how choosing energy-efficient windows will increase your home’s value.

The National Fenestration Rating Council, or NFRC, offers energy performance rating labels for window types that can tell you a lot about the efficiency of any particular window. While shopping for window replacements, these labels will be a great way to tell which windows will improve your energy efficiency quickly. 

Frames

Frames contribute the most to a window’s energy efficiency. Although homebuyers are looking for energy-efficient windows, consumers have reported that the type of window frame does not matter as much as the potential energy savings.

Even so, the type of frame you choose will impact the cost, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different window options.

Aluminum and Metal Frames

These frame types are both lightweight and strong, though they do not insulate very well on their own. Aluminum and metal frames tend to be at the mid-range price point.

They require very little maintenance but are not likely to reduce heat transmission by any significant amount.

Composite Frames

As the name implies, composite frames are made of multiple materials. In this case, they are made of wood products mixed with plastics. The result is a frame that has better resistance to moisture and rot than a traditional wood frame. Additionally, composite frames offer comparable insulation from heat.

Fiberglass Frames

These window frames are durable and energy-efficient, but they tend to be somewhat more expensive. They are a high-quality option for frame material and are very resistant to changes in temperature and weather.

Vinyl Frames

If you’re looking for a wide variety of window styles without breaking the bank, vinyl is a great option. In addition to being energy-efficient, vinyl frames are very sturdy and help reduce harmful condensation from forming on your windows.

However, one drawback to vinyl frames is that they are not as durable as aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frames. 

Wood Frames

Wood frames are some of the most energy-efficient frames on the market, but they also tend to be very pricey. They can be very beautiful and lend a natural, charming appeal to your home.

However, wood frames will require more maintenance than other frame types. Wood is highly susceptible to change in moisture levels, rot, and decay.

Glass

Choosing the right glazing or glass treatment for your windows can also help improve your home’s overall energy efficiency. For example, if you have a window that faces east or west, you will likely want to choose a treatment that helps reduce the amount of heat from direct sunlight.

An insulated window is one type of window glazing. An insulated window will have two or more panes of glass. The panes have a small amount of distance between them and are hermetically sealed. This air gap acts as an insulating space.

Low-emissivity coatings, or ‘Low-E’ coatings, reduce the amount of heat transferred through windows. These types of coatings are typically applied to the glass during the manufacturing phase. 

Low-e glass coatings may be more expensive, but they can reduce your home’s energy loss anywhere from 30% to 50%. However, Low-E films can be bought separately and applied to windows after the fact.

Window Installation

As an informed consumer, you will likely choose the most energy-efficient window options on the market that fit your budget. However, without proper installation, you might be throwing your money away.

Proper installation of your windows will ensure that you get the most value and energy efficiency from your purchase.

Be sure to check the warranty information on any windows or window frames you purchase. If the windows are not installed according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer, your warranty runs the risk of becoming void.

The price of window installation by trained professionals is another cost to consider when replacing your windows. It’s important to take this part of the window replacement process seriously since improper installation could lead to even more expensive setbacks.

Do New Windows Increase Home Value?

Most home buyers are willing to pay more for homes that have more energy-efficient features. Investing in new windows is one excellent way to improve energy efficiency.

Some states may even offer tax-based or other incentives for homeowners to install energy-efficient options – including windows. Check out which options are available in your state.

The potentially high cost of new home windows may be intimidating. The return on investment for new windows may not be apparent for quite some time. 

CNBC reported that paying $10,000 for replacement vinyl windows could yield a return of about $8,500 – or an ROI of 85%. This is also on top of what you would save monthly with reduced energy bills – up to $450 per year.

The Bottom Line

Replacing your windows will be costly, but do new windows increase home value? Yes, absolutely. 

If you plan to live in your home for some time before you sell it, new windows may be a worthwhile investment as you will be able to enjoy the energy-efficient benefits. Additionally, new windows can revitalize your home’s appearance and show your pride as a homeowner.

However, if you’re looking to sell your house sooner rather than later, new windows alone are not likely to seal the deal. There may be other improvement projects that may have slipped your mind. 

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to find out the value of your home right now, try using the free home value estimator here on iBuyer. You can even get a no-obligation cash offer for your home! 

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It’s finally time for that home remodel! How can you make sure you’ll get a good return on your investment? Will a fireplace add value to your home?

According to The National Association of Realtors, adding a fireplace can raise your home value by as much as $12,000. But is it always worth the investment? The solid answer is: sometimes. Keep reading to find out more.

1. The Right Kind of Fireplace

Fireplaces vary in style, heat sources, and price. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of fireplaces available to homeowners.

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces are most commonly found in homes ranging around $450,000. They’re a great way to enjoy the heat and ambiance of a fire without the mess. Since they’re gas-powered, these fireplaces are enclosed and don’t require wood to run.

Thus, no ashes, smoke in the house, or opening and closing a flue. Gas fireplace owners can create a warm, cozy fire by simply flipping a switch.

Gas fireplaces cost anywhere from $2,300 to $10,000.

Electric Fireplaces

An electric fireplace offers the lowest cost fireplace option. If you want a linear wall fireplace or cozy corner unit, look into an electric fireplace.

Many electric fireplaces are portable. The ability to move your fireplace from one room to another increases its versatility. This may help you stage your home for re-sale which could make it more appealing to future buyers.

Electric fireplaces range in price from $1,500 to $3,500. Considering their versatility and ease of use, it’s an investment to consider.

Wood Burning Fireplaces

There really is nothing like the smell and real-live crackle of a wood-burning fire. Some people find the charm and nostalgia of a wood-burning fireplace irreplaceable.

Wood burning fireplaces require more maintenance than their gas and electric counterparts. They put out heat by burning wood, which produces heat, smoke, and ashes.

Homeowners are responsible for cleaning up ashes. Fireplace owners should be careful sparks from the fire don’t fly out of the fireplace and damage flooring.

For many, the heat and ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace are worth the effort. The costs of installing a wood-burning fireplace are anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000.

Pellet-Burning Fireplaces

Fireplaces that run on pellets, sawdust, wood, or similar materials are a great option for the eco-friendly home improver. These fireplaces run on fuel pellets made from factory byproduct materials. Instead of heading to the landfill, leftover sawdust, wood, and other materials are burned in your fireplace.

Average installation costs of pellet burning fireplaces range from $4,000 to $10,000. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly upgrade, you’ve found it here.

2. Location, Location, Location

Like any good home improvement, location is key. Where will your fireplace be the most efficient? Which room in the house is a little more drafty during those colder months?

Maybe you’re going for a cozy, romantic master suite. A gas or electric fireplace would likely be the best option.

For large gathering spaces, you may want to make your fireplace the centerpiece of the room. A large fireplace could provide a lot of heat while creating a warm atmosphere for friends and family.

Take a look through current remodeling trends to help you decide. What does your contractor recommend? Browse through house listings to see where other homeowners have put their fireplaces.

Where you decide to put your fireplace will have a lot to do with how much it increases your property value.

3. Remember: It’s Going to Get Hot

Keep in mind that your fireplace will put out heat. Depending on the style and size, it could make your space uncomfortably warm.

If you live in a climate that sees cold winters or even cooler nights, virtually any place in your home could use a fireplace.

However, if your environment is warm and humid year-round, this may not be the smartest update for you. Talk to your contractor or real estate expert in your area to find out how common fireplaces are in your region.

What you see as a positive improvement may be a negative feature to potential homebuyers in your area.

4. Size and Style Matter

Additions to your home are only improvements if they add something positive. Placing a giant fireplace in a small room will make the room feel cramped, not cozy. On the other hand, a small, corner fireplace could look ridiculous in a great gathering space.

The same goes for style, what kind of tone does your remodeled space have? If you’re going mid-century modern, then a large, wood-carved fireplace wouldn’t fit in very well.

With so many options available, you should be able to find the size, style, and type of fireplace you need for your room.

5. Existing Fireplaces

To keep or not to keep? That is the question.

If your house was built in the 1980s or later, chances are you have a zero clearance fireplace. These are pretty easy for builders to work with. You may want to choose an electric or gas fireplace to insert in the space.

If your home is from the 1900s your fireplace is likely connected to the foundation. Removing these older fireplaces requires major home surgery. Most of the time, it’s better to repurpose the space or insert a new fireplace in the same spot.

You could have the chimney closed off and place decorative candlesticks in the space. If you decide to demo an existing fireplace, consult with a licensed contractor. Removing a fireplace could cost more than you expect.

6. What’s The Enclosure?

If you install a gas or electric fireplace, they’ll likely be enclosed with glass. If you’d like to update your space without replacing the entire fireplace, try swapping the glass doors or enclosure.

Looking to update your wood or pellet-burning fireplace? Get creative with the screen. Fireplace screens come in many sizes and styles. Choose one that best fits your remodeled space.

7. Maintenance Costs

Gas and Electric fireplaces maintenance costs vary. The size and type of fireplace determine how much you will be charged for a visit. Because they have mechanical parts, they’ll likely need repair over time.

Wood and pellet-burning fireplaces need to be serviced annually by a chimney sweep. They also require an annual flue inspection. The cost of maintaining these fireplaces depends on the geographical area and size of your fireplace and chimney.

All types of fireplaces need annual servicing. Check with local professionals to get an estimate on costs in your area. Unless you’re a licensed professional, DIY fireplace maintenance is not recommended.

Why Doesn’t Every Home Have a Fireplace?

According to a 2019 survey, only about 41% of new constructions have a fireplace. If fireplaces add value to a home, why are they left out over 1/2 of new builds?

Nixing fireplaces are a great way to cut costs. Many homeowners don’t anticipate added expenses of new construction. As a result, fireplaces are often on the chopping block.

Most home builders view fireplaces as a luxury, not a necessity. If you’ve decided to leave a fireplace out of your new build, don’t abandon the idea altogether.

Ask your builder to leave a space for a future fireplace. This will make it easier for you to fit it in when it’s time to remodel.

Will A Fireplace Add Value to My Home?

When a fireplace is the right size and style for your home a fireplace will add value. You may not get a dollar-for-dollar return on your investment. However, the enjoyment you’ll get from using your fireplace has value as well.

Many homes with high property values have fireplaces. This is a good indication that fireplaces are desirable for high-end home buyers.

When planning your next remodel, don’t overlook the many benefits of fireplaces. They can heat your home in a more efficient way. They’re aesthetically pleasing.

Fireplaces can be tailored to your personal style. You can find the right screen or glass door to fit almost any space.

What’s My Home Worth?

So will a fireplace add value to your home? Many homeowners don’t realize how much value their home already has. Why not check out your home’s value before planning that remodel?

Our online iValuation can help you find out how much your home is worth. You can even see our cash offer on your home.

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As a homeowner, you’re constantly thinking of projects that can make your home more comfortable. You’re also determined to make every renovation that you do increase its value. 

Maybe you remodeled the kitchen and bathrooms. Maybe you’re adding additions to your home. But did you think about replacing the floors?

Does new flooring increase home value? If so how much?

Flooring can be a major make-or-break item when it comes to selling your home. Buyers love to see brand-new flooring that is easy to maintain. 

And if they don’t like your home’s floors, then you’re much less likely to get a decent offer on it when you go to sell it. 

So you need to make sure that you’re choosing flooring options that will get you the best value for your home. With so many flooring options available, it can be confusing to figure out which decisions are the right ones to make. 

So read on to learn if new floors could increase your home’s value and how to get the best Return On Investment possible.

Does New Flooring Increase Home Value?

Believe it or not, buyers are looking at your floors. They’re looking to see what condition they’re in. They want to know how hard it is to maintain them and what types of flooring you have. 

Most homeowners find about a seventy percent ROI on new floors when they go to sell their house. So the short answer is yes. New floors can add a lot of value to your home if done right.

Do Hardwood Floors Increase Home Value?

Hardwoods have been the dominators of the flooring industry in the United States for a long time now. They’re one of the more desired flooring materials out there. They’re also one of the easier types of floors to take care of. 

This is because they can be mopped easily if something spills on them. The only thing you need to be careful of is scratching them. 

They’re also quite sturdy. This makes them ideal for rooms with heavy foot traffic such as kitchens and entryways. That’s why they’re such a popular option, especially in the main living spaces of the home.

However, this doesn’t mean that they’re ideal for every room. The main issue that you might find with hardwoods is that they’re susceptible to rot. This means that they aren’t always ideal for homes in humid regions.

It also means that they aren’t necessarily the best idea for bathrooms. This is because there tend to be a lot of water spills in bathrooms. Not to mention steam from the shower seeps into the wood to cause rot too.

Different woods will have different amounts of sturdiness. This means that you want to be sure that you’re picking floors that can handle the abuse they’ll endure in the room you’re renovating.

These floors are going to give you the highest ROI of all flooring options though. So yes, they will increase your home’s value.

Does Laminate Flooring Increase Home Value?

Laminate flooring is going a good option for those who are on a budget. It’s easy to install and can give the hardwood appearance for less money. It’s also just as easy to clean.

They also match hardwood in strength without the risk of rot. So they’re safe to put into bathrooms and homes in humid areas. This is why they’re one of the most common choices for those who are installing new floors today for these reasons. 

The biggest problem that people find with laminate flooring is that it tends to be very slippery. This means that it’s not ideal for people who aren’t very mobile. You also need to be careful about any spills since this can make them even slicker. 

But do they increase your home’s value?

Yes, they can. If your current floors are old and falling apart, then almost any flooring is going to increase its value. However, in general, laminate floorings are not going to give you as high an ROI as hardwoods.

That doesn’t mean that laminate floors aren’t worth it. If you play your cards right, then you can still get a pretty high ROI for these floors. 

Does Luxury Vinyl Plank Increase Home Value?

Vinyl is quickly becoming a popular flooring option. It’s a synthetic material that’s designed to mimic natural stone or wood. 

It does a much better job of this than laminate does too. The synthetic floorings look very convincing without the added costs of hardwood floors. 

They’re also more durable than laminate. So they’re a great option for high-traffic areas in a home. It’s also more water-resistant, so it’s safe to put in bathrooms.

It costs about the same as laminate and is easy to install and maintain. 

But while they look convincing, they might not quite feel convincing. They don’t usually have the same textures as hardwood flooring. 

And if you want the best return for your investment, then you can’t go with anything less than luxury plank vinyl. Cheaper vinyl options can twist and bend very easily, so they aren’t as durable or as attractive as luxury planks.

Even though it’s not true hardwood, buyers will still appreciate the aesthetics and feel of these durable floors. This is what buyers really care about at the end of the day.

So yes, installing new vinyl flooring in your home will raise your property value. There are tricks you can use to make sure you get the most money back from your investment. But this is an easy and lower-cost method to improve your property’s value without breaking your budget.

What About Carpeting and Tile?

You see it happen all the time on home improvement shows: the hosts see a lot of carpet and cringe. And sometimes you find tiles that simply look outdated or tacky. But that doesn’t mean you won’t get any ROI for putting in new tile floors or carpeting.

In general, buyers won’t mind brand new carpets. This is especially true if you plan to replace it in bedrooms. However, it would be wise to avoid installing new carpets inside living spaces if you want a higher ROI.

But a brand new and clean carpet is something that buyers can appreciate. It means that their feet won’t get cold as soon as they hit the floor as they’re waking up.

Tile, on the other hand, gets a little more complicated. You must consider the material that the tile is made of and its appearance. However, tile is generally the safest option for bathrooms because it’s naturally more water-resistant. 

And if you pick the right tiles, it can give a bathroom a much-needed facelift. They tend not to be quite as slippery as laminate does too. 

But tile also has the disadvantage of being cold under your feet. While most buyers won’t walk away from a house for this reason alone, it can still be uncomfortable for many people. 

But overall, if you play your cards right, then even carpet and tile floorings can increase your home’s value!

How to Get the Best ROI for Your New Floors

While you can get a decent ROI for replacing your floors, there are ways to increase it. Many homeowners can see up to an eighty percent ROI. Following these tips can help you get the best value back for your investment.

Consistency

The best thing you can do to increase the value of your home is to make the flooring consistent throughout your home. Specifically, you should be giving the main living spaces consistent flooring. Bedrooms and bathrooms are the exceptions, but it’s often best to make these spaces identical to each other.

One reason a lot of buyers will walk away from a home is that there are different types of flooring in every room. It starts to look patchy when this happens.

On the other hand, when the floors are consistent throughout the house, then this creates a nice flow to the house and makes it feel more open. This is the kind of feeling that buyers often look for. 

It can also be a big deal to those with disabilities. Wheelchair users have a hard time getting over high thresholds that often occur with transitions between floors. So these people need to find homes with consistent flooring.

Space Matters

You also need to think about which room that you’re reflooring.

If you’re getting new floors for a kitchen or entryway, then you want something sturdy. These rooms get a lot of foot traffic every day. So durable floors will be the best option.

On the other hand, these rooms don’t usually get a lot of water or steam spilled in them. So waterproof floors won’t be a necessity. You should do just fine with water resistance or no water protection at all.

Bathrooms, however, need something that’s going to be able to stand up to water and steam, but they don’t usually see the kind of foot traffic that kitchens do.

This is why tile floors popular option for bathrooms. They are naturally waterproof, so they’ll last a long time in these rooms. But they aren’t the most sturdy floors and can break or crack during installation if not done carefully.

In bedrooms, either hardwoods, synthetic floors, or carpets are probably your best choices. Tile sometimes is too cold for bedrooms. 

However, remember that it’s best to try to make flooring consistent throughout the main living areas of the house. This is where hardwoods and floors that look like hardwoods are going to get you the most ROI.

Consider Location

Where you live can also impact what kind of floors you want. 

In colder climates, for example, tile isn’t particularly popular because it gets so cold. Hardwoods, however, tend to be a little bit warmer under peoples’ feet. Therefore, hardwoods are much more popular in colder regions.

But in areas that are hot and humid, hardwoods tend to rot faster. This isn’t ideal for floors in these regions. That’s why it’s more popular to have tile floors there.

It also is cooler under your feet during the summer months. And since so much of a person’s body heat is determined by the feet and head, this makes it ideal for hot climates.

And then there are synthetic floorings like laminate and vinyl. These tend to not be as cold as tile or as warm as hardwoods. These are generally considered neutral floors that are used all over the world. 

So no matter where you live, laminate and vinyl are both good floors to install in your home. For other floors, you should think very hard about the climate around your home when making your choices.

Cater to a Wide Market

The most important thing you can do during any home improvement project is to cater to a wide market. When you go to sell your home, you want buyers to be interested in it and offer good money to buy it. 

Choosing your new flooring carefully can be the best way to make sure this happens. You want your floors to look clean and uniform throughout the house. You want the colors to be popular when you go to sell your house. Doing these things is the key to getting the best ROI for your new floors.

Get Your New Home Flooring Today

So does new flooring increase home value? Yes, it does!

There are also ways of ensuring that you get the best ROI possible when you go to sell your home. Following the above tips will get you a great price for it.

And when you’re ready to sell your home, then you can trust iBuyer to give you a hassle-free offer on your home. There are no showings or repairs needed! 

So if you’re looking to sell your house quickly for the best value, then go ahead and get a free estimate online today.

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Replacing your roof might not be as fun of a home improvement project as adding a new bedroom or remodeling your kitchen. However, without a roof over your head, the rest of your house won’t do you much good.

In the past, humans used natural materials like mud, palm fronds, and animal hides. As civilization became more advanced, people would make clay tiles to create sheltered spaces. These days, people can choose from a number of different roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and slate.

Some sellers choose to repair or replace their roofs before they put their houses on the market for sale. How much does a new roof increase home value, though?

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know so you can make an informed decision about your own property.

Roof Repair and Replacement Options

Depending on both your budget and the condition of your current roots, there are varying degrees of roof replacement and repair. Let’s take a look at each option so that you can get a better sense of how to proceed.

(Are you wondering whether you have other options that don’t involve a giant home improvement project before you sell your home? If so, learn about the pros and cons of iBuying here.)

Shingle Replacement

It can be relatively inexpensive to replace individual shingles on your roof. This might be a good idea if some of your shingles have been damage by tree branches or wind. However, it’s important to make sure that they are the same shingles that are already on your roof so that they match.

Partial Re-Roofing

You might find that only certain sections of the roof of your home are in need of repair. You therefore might decide to do a partial reroofing of your home. There is a limit to how many times you can do this, though, because it will create an uneven slope over time.

If there are already multiple layers of roofing on your home, it might be time to install a whole new roof.

New Roof

Lastly, might simply be time for a full roof replacement. Whether or not this is the case for you has to do with the roof’s age, wear, and the climate of your location.

There are typically two options when it comes to a new roof. There is a “roof over” and a “tear-off.”

The cheaper of the two options is a roof over. This is when a brand new roof is put on top of the old roof instead of removing the old roof. This is will look the same as a tear-off and can still be marketing to potential buyers as a new roof.

A tear-off is when you completely remove the old roof and put on a brand new roof. There are a number of important benefits to choosing this method.

One benefit is that you are able to take a closer look at your roof and make sure there are any additional issues. On top of that, the finish is higher-quality because shingles attach more securely to the home’s structure than they do to other shingles.

If you do choose to go with a tear-off roof replacement, you will definitely want to mention it in your listing description when you sell. This can be a huge selling point for buyers because it means that they won’t have to worry about roof repair or replacement anytime soon.

Installing a Roof: How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of installing a new roof can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. This includes how large your roof is, the material you are using, your location, and whether or not you are removing the previous roof or layering over on top of it.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average amount American homeowners spend to replace a roof is between $5,132 and $10,023. If you choose to do the project on your own, you can expect to save about half of what you would spend on hiring professionals to do it.

That being said, this can be a big project to take on yourself if you’ve never done anything like this before. There are a number of complications you could run into along the way that might require you to call in a professional anyway.

The typical range for a roof repair is between $336 and $1,254. The materials you use will have an impact on the cost of this as well as your locations and the size of the area that needs to be repaired.

How Much Does a New Roof Increase Home Value?

You might not see a 100% return on investment when you install a new roof. However, it can increase the value of your home. For what it’s worth, there are not many improvements that allow you to recoup all of the money that you spent.

However, there are a number of benefits to replacing your roof. It can mean that your house sells faster, you are more likely to get the full asking price, and the negotiations go much more smoothly.

While it can differ between houses and locations, let’s take a look at the average cost and return on investment for two of the most popular types of roof replacements.

Metal Roof Replacement

These are low-maintenance and durable roofs that are typically used in parts of the country that are snowier.

The average national cost of installing a new metal roof is about $38,600. When it comes to resale value, the average is about $23,526. This means that the return on investment is about 60.9%.

While a metal roof might be a bit more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof, it’s worth mentioning that they also tend to have a significantly longer lifespan. A metal roof can last between 40 and 70 years, meaning that once you replace your roof you don’t have to worry about it for a long time.

Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement

This might just be the most widely used type of roofing material in the U.S. Relatively easy to install as well as waterproof and sturdy, asphalt shingles are a common choice when it’s time for a roof replacement.

The average national cost of installing a new asphalt shingle roof is $22,636. You can expect, on average, that this improvement gets you $15,247 in resale value. This means that you receive a 68.2% return on investment on average.

Asphalt shingle roofs are less expensive than metal roofs but they do not typically last as long as metal roofs. You can usually expect between 20 and 22 years out of an asphalt shingle roof. This is, at best, half the life span of a metal roof.

Tips For Maximizing ROI on a New Roof

If you are interested in getting the most ROI from your roof, there are a number of things you can do. Here are some tips for maximizing your return on investment:

• Don’t layer shingles, instead remove old shingles and put a new roof on
• Keep up with the necessary maintenance of your roof and check on it frequently
• Choose midrange roofing materials
• Consider offering to transfer the warranty to the buyer

If you do choose to replace your roof before selling, make sure that you market the fact that it’s new and any other saleable features.

Do You Need to Replace Your Roof Before Selling Your House?

Replacing your roof is a big project, so it’s worth making sure that it’s the right choice before you embark on it. If your existing roof has issues, this can make it difficult to sell your home. If that is the case, you might decide that replacing or repairing your roof before listing is worth the expense.

Roughly 18% of sellers repair or replace their roofs before they put their houses up for sale.

There are a number of signs that can point to needing either repair or replacement for your roof. These include:

• Leaks
• Buckling shingles
• Sagging roof
• Cracked shingles
• Lost granules
• Recent hair or wind damage
• Ice dams

All of these things can both flag issues for a home inspector and impact your curb appeal negatively. If your roof has had damage or other issues, in some states you will be required to disclose this information to a potential buyer. You can learn more about what you need to disclose when selling a house here.

What’s the Best Type of Roofing Materials to Use?

If you are just reroofing part of your roof or replacing shingles, then you will want to make sure that you match your new roofing materials to the materials already on your roof. You have more options, however, if you are completely replacing your roof.

Asphalt Shingles

These shingles are popular and easy to install. They are also affordable and durable. Lasting roughly 25 years, these shingles come in a lot of different colors and are the most common roofing type in the United States.

Metal Roofing

While this type of roofing is expensive, they are incredibly durable. Lasting 50 years or more, these roofs are made out of sections of metal roofing that connect and are cut to fit to your home.

Metal roofs are particularly common in places with lots of snow.

Once you start thinking about replacing your roof before selling your home, you might start thinking about other projects that could also boost your home’s value. Is it worth replacing your windows before selling your home? You can learn more here.

Composite or Synthetic Shingles

These are shingles that are made to look like wood or slate but are actually roughly the same price as asphalt shingles. With minimal maintenance, these tiles can last up to 50 years.

Tile, Clay, or Cement

This type of roofing material can last between 50 and 100 years. They are common in Spanish-style homes and can look quite stylish. However, they tend to cost as much as three times more than asphalt shingles, making them a particularly pricey option.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are very nice looking, but there’s a price you pay for that. About twice as expensive as asphalt, these shingles typically last about 25 years. Some cities actually don’t even allow this type of shingle because of concerns about fire.

Slate

Slate roofs can last a really long time, sometimes even more than 100 years. These shingles are made of real stone. However, expensive and heavy, this type of roofing can be as much as 20 times more expensive than asphalt shingles.

Are You Ready to Sell Your House?

So, how much does a new roof increase home value?

As you can see, there isn’t a particularly straightforward answer to this question. While you might not recoup entirely of the cost when you sell your home, there can be a number of other benefits that you might find to make the project worthwhile. For example, you might be motivated to have a faster sale and be looking for something to help your home be more competitive in your local market.

That being said, if you have a roof that needs repair or replacement and you’re looking to sell your home, you have other options. If you choose to sell to an iBuyer, you won’t have to bother with the expense or stress of repairing your roof. In fact, you won’t even have to deal with cleaning, staging, showings, or open houses!

IBuyers are cash investors that will buy your home as-is. Because they are purchasing your home with cash, it means that you don’t have to spend countless nights worrying that the buyers will have their financing fall through. Since the buyers aren’t obtaining the money through a lender, it means that the whole process can happen way faster than a typical sale.

Are you wondering how much money you could sell your home to an iBuyer for? Check out our free home value estimator today!

The post How Much Does a New Roof Increase Home Value? appeared first on iBuyer Blog.

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The fourth most popular recreational activity in the U.S. is swimming. It’s a wholesome American pastime that has a long list of benefits, including being a great way to get regular aerobic physical activity. On top of that, it can help reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing.

Having a pool in your backyard is definitely the most convenient way to spend a little time in the water every day. It can also be awesome for entertaining and spending time with your loved ones.

However, pool installations aren’t the cheapest home improvement you can make, and that’s before you even consider the cost of maintenance and repairs. For this reason, you might be wondering: does a pool increase home value?

Let’s take a look at what you need to know so you can make an informed decision about your property.

Does a Pool Increase Home Value?

Does a pool add value to a home?

The answer to this question depends on a number of different factors, but the short answer is: it depends.

Inground pools will typically lead to an increase in your home value, but above-ground pools might not. Let’s look into each option in some more depth below.

(Are you ready to sell your house, like, yesterday? If so, take a look at this guide on how to sell your house fast.)

Does an Above Ground Pool Increase Home Value?

Above-ground pools have been a bit of a pandemic craze as country clubs and public pools shut down across the country. Inspired to improve their quality of life while spending a lot more time at home than usual, many Americans chose to install above-ground pools to help them have a refreshing and cool summer.

When compared to inground pools, above-ground pools aren’t seen as being nearly as upscale or sophisticated. However, some families might be appreciative of it as a feature regardless.

One of the biggest factors that can determine whether or not an above-ground pool will increase your home value is the quality. Some of these pools are built to serve as an extension of the home, while others look more like an afterthought. This will have an impact on whether or not you see any return on investment from the install and maintenance costs.

The location also matters when it comes to this question. In places where there are warm temperatures year-round (think Florida,) an above-ground pool can potentially add value. If this isn’t the case, homebuyers might feel like the amenity isn’t essential and actually sacrifices valuable yard space.

Above-ground pools aren’t allowed in many homeowners’ associations. You typically find this style of pool in rural settings and older neighborhoods.

If you choose to get an above-ground pool, think of it as an investment in your own enjoyment rather than as a scheme to increase your home value.

Does an Inground Pool Increase Home Value?

Inground pools do typically increase your property value but read on before you start scheduling quotes from local pool installers. Though it might increase the value of your home, you still might not recoup your investment.

In ideal circumstances, installing an inground pool can boost the value of your house by as much as 7%. Considering how much it costs to install a pool, this means that you likely won’t increase your home’s value as much as it cost you to install the pool.

You can’t sidestep this issue if you build a pool that is too elaborate or fancy when compared to your home, either. This will actually mean that you recoup less of the costs rather than proportionately increasing your home value.

The other thing to factor in is how much it costs to maintain pools, which is typically significant. With other home improvements, such as remodeling your kitchen or adding an additional room, you don’t have to factor in additional maintenance costs.

There are a number of other ways to add value to your home if that is your primary interest. Landscaping, minor bathroom remodels, and minor kitchen remodels can all recoup roughly 100% of your investment, for example.

If you’re looking to make upgrades and repairs to your home specifically to increase the value, check out this article.

How Much Value Does a Pool Add to a Home?

How much does a pool add value to a home?

There isn’t a simple answer to how much value is added to a home with the addition of an inground pool. Some reports say that the average increase you can expect is between 5 and 8 percent, while another study suggests that 7 percent is the best you’re going to do.

The location of your home can make a big difference when it comes to answering this question. In places where there are less than the average number of pools, the value of the home could increase impressively because they have something unique to offer on the market. This can also be a popular amenity in places where there are lots of families with school-age children.

However, if your pool is maintained poorly or needs maintenance or repairs, it can actually deter buyers and reduce your home value.

You might consider hiring a professional appraiser if you are thinking about building a pool and are concerned with its impact on the value of the home. They will be able to help estimate how much of an increase, if any, you can expect for your home’s value. You can then weigh out whether or not this works for your specific needs.

(If you’re thinking about selling your home but have no idea how much your house is worth, take a look at this handy guide.)

Cost to Install a Pool

To install a fiberglass inground pool, the average cost including materials and labor can range between $20,000 and $60,000. For a pool made from gunite or concrete, the average cost is between $35,000 and $100,000.

As you can see, an inground pool comes with a hefty price tag. Above-ground models, on the other hand, can cost between $1,500 and $15,000.

Above-ground pools don’t tend to last as long as inground pools. This is something you will want to factor in when deciding what type of pool would work best for your property if you do choose to have one installed.

Cost to Maintain a Pool

Having a pool isn’t cheap even once the install is over with. The average cost per year for basic pool maintenance ranges between $1,200 and $1,800. When you add in utility and repair costs, the amount you spend per year can end up totally between $3,000 and $5,000.

Pool upkeep includes:

• Buying and adding chemicals to prevent algae growth and maintain proper pH levels
• Having the pool cleaned and vacuumed regularly during months your pool is open
• Purchasing accessories like leaf skimmers, attachable brushes, and telescoping poles

If you hire a pool service, your maintenance costs will be quite a bit higher than if you do this maintenance yourself. Saltwater pools can also have lower maintenance costs than chlorine pools.

Cost to Insure a Pool

One thing that people often don’t think about when they are considering getting a pool is that it will likely raise their homeowner’s insurance premiums. It is common for policies to cover up to 10% of the replacement cost of pools and other external structures. They also typically cover at least part of most accidents related to swimming pools.

Liability is still something you will want to think about when getting a pool. If you weren’t providing a safe swimming environment, you can be held legally accountable if someone is injured or dies.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies require that you don’t have a diving board and that you install a fence around the pool to help prevent accidents.

How to Finance a Pool

Building a pool is a big expense, so there’s a good chance that you are interested in borrowing money in order to make your dream a reality. Borrowing money is cheap right now because interest rates are hovering down around historic lows.

Some of the different pool financing options you might consider if you qualify include:

• Apply for a home equity loan: This allows you to take out a fixed-rate second mortgage to pull equity from your home
• Apply for a cash-out refinance: This lets you take extra cash home by tapping into your home’s equity
• Apply for a personal loan: This type of loan might have a higher interest rate but doesn’t tap into your equity and doesn’t require collateral
• Apply for a credit card: This might be a reasonable choice if you don’t qualify for any of the other options and can qualify for a zero-to-low rate card
• Apply for a home equity line of credit: This allows you to draw from an adjustable-rate line of credit when you need it up to a certain limit

As you can see, there are a number of ways to make your backyard pool dreams come to life.

Do Buyers See a Pool as a Feature or an Obstacle?

While some buyers might consider an inground pool a luxury, many might simply see it as a liability. There are a number of factors that can coalesce to mean that you can increase your home value by as much as 7%, which include:

• The home is in a higher-end neighborhood where it is the standard to have a pool
• You live in a climate where a pool can be enjoyed year-round, such as Arizona, Hawaii, or Florida
• The pool is well-maintained and the style of the pool fits well with your neighborhood and home
• The pool doesn’t consume all of the space in the yard and leaves space for other features like a garden or swingset
• You are able to attract a buyer that is looking to have a pool

If you really want to add a pool to your home, there’s nothing wrong with that. However, a better way to look at it is as an investment in your lifestyle rather than in your home. When you have a pool it can make your home a more enjoyable place to be, which is something you really can’t put a price on.

You will simply want to be prepared for the responsibility and costs that come along with maintaining a pool as well as the fact that it could deter some buyers if you choose to sell your home in the future.

How Much Is Your Home Worth?

So, does a pool increase home value? An inground pool can increase the value of your home, but you’re unlikely to recoup the costs of installing, maintaining, and repairing the pool.

That doesn’t mean you definitely shouldn’t install a pool. However, if you choose to do so, it should be because it would increase the quality of life for your family rather than out of the hope that it would increase your home value.

Are you starting to think about selling your house but aren’t looking forward to the headache that is listing your house on the open market? If so, you might be curious to learn about the potential of selling your house to an iBuyer. When you go this route, the process is much more simple, straightforward, and fast.

When you accept a cash offer from an iBuyer, it means that you don’t have to deal with any repairs, showings, open houses, or stagings. You also don’t have to lose sleep at night for months worrying that the buyers’ financing won’t pull through.

Are you wondering how much your home might be worth? If so, you can find out right here!

The post Does a Pool Increase Home Value? appeared first on iBuyer Blog.

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