Replacing your roof is a big investment. The question is, is that investment worth it? The answer to that question is going to vary from homeowner to homeowner. It all depends on the roofing materials used to replace your roof, what condition your roof is in now, how much the replacement will cost, and even when you put your house on the market.
Let’s break it down…
Does a new roof increase your home value?
Yes. Putting a new roof on your home guarantees your house will increase in value by several thousand dollars. However, it does not guarantee that you will get your full return on investment or the full cost of the new roof.
If your roof is at the end of its life, it’s wise to replace it now before selling. Before you sell your home, you will need an inspection. That inspection is going to reveal if your roof is old, leaky, or faulty. Those are words that will send potential buyers running. A new roof is an extremely attractive feature and will likely help you sell faster and with fewer headaches. If you forego the roof replacement, it won’t be fun to negotiate once your buyer finds out they’ll be inheriting old roofing woes.
Work with a trusted roofing contractor to get the best value out of your new roof. The total price of your new roof will depend on the size and pitch of your roof, and the roofing materials you choose to use. Consult a local roofing contractor to find out how to get the best bang for your buck. You may be able to get a higher return on investment if you choose your roofing materials well!
Curb appeal is important. The thing about roofing is, when it’s good, no one notices. When it’s bad, everyone notices. Potential buyers will quickly spot broken shingles, visible mold or mildew, or other damage on your roof. Remember, your roof contributes to your entire home’s curb appeal. Make sure you take time to wash it and repair problematic spots before you put it on the market. Even if you don’t need a full roof replacement, hiring someone to do basic maintenance and repairs will likely pay off in the long run!
You may be able to capitalize on insurance. If your roof has any hail damage, you may be able to get the replacement all or partially covered. The best way to find out is by scheduling a free roof inspection. If this is the case, replacing your roof can only increase the value of your home! Learn how to make a roof insurance claim and get your house listed on the market faster.
Bonus: 5 ways to increase the value of your home
A new roof is only one way you can increase the value of your home. Here are a few more of our top tips for increasing home value before you put it on the market.
- Add energy-efficient appliances and a smart thermostat
Anything that will show your buyers they will save on utility bills is a plus. Install a smart thermostat that can be controlled from your phone and helps regulate the temperature of your home. If you have to replace appliances like your dishwasher, refrigerator, air conditioner, or even your ceiling fans, make sure you’re erring on the side of efficiency. Bonus Tip: Make sure your real estate agent is marketing these features for you!
- Freshen up paint and caulk
A fresh coat of paint goes a long way to making your home feel fresh and clean. Make sure you thoroughly clean the walls and surfaces before you paint and opt for neutral colors. Don’t neglect your trim, cabinets, and ceilings! If any of those surfaces are looking a little dingy, they’ll benefit from a coat of paint, too. Lastly, make sure you also re-caulk any seams (inside or outside) that are dirty or peeling. You’ll be amazed at the difference and so will homebuyers!
- Invest in your kitchen and bathroom
Bathrooms and kitchens hold the most sway when people are house hunting. Concentrate your budget on repairs and upgrades in these rooms over others to see the biggest increase in value. It doesn’t have to be a whole room renovation to make a difference! Something as simple as updating drawer pulls or hanging new towel bars and a mirror may breathe new life into an old room, all while improving your home’s value in the eyes of homebuyers.
- Increase your curb appeal
First impressions are important. You want potential buyers to start pointing out things they like about your home before they even reach the front door. Keeping up on lawn maintenance, adding a few flower pots or flower beds for color, and giving your house and driveway a good clean, are key. Give your front door a fresh coat of paint and keep your gutters clear of leaves. Lastly, don’t forget your mailbox! A broken, leaning, or chipped mailbox can be a real eyesore!
- Increase your living space
Increasing your liveable space is one of the top things you can do to add value to your home. This doesn’t have to mean building an addition! Other options include finishing or partially re-finishing a basement (even if it’s just some basic carpet squares and drywall), adding a deck, pouring a patio, or increasing your outdoor entertaining space. Every square inch counts!
Have questions about increasing the value of your home by repairing or replacing your roof? We’d love to hear from you. Contact us today to schedule a free roof inspection or to get a consult on your roofing project.