The real estate market is extremely competitive right now, especially in the St. Louis Metro East. With more options to choose from, buyers can be more discriminating when comparing homes, and sellers have to take every step to make their houses stand out from the crowd.
One of the most significant home improvements to consider before putting your home up for sale is whether or not replacing your roof could make or break an offer. While a roof replacement is never required, it can give you an advantage come negotiation time. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, new roofing is the top exterior selling point for buyers, and 33 percent of realtors said roof replacements have closed a sale.
Why Replacing Your Roof Might Be the Right Choice for You
If you’re on the fence about upgrading your home with a new roof prior to selling, take these factors into consideration:
- How long can you afford to keep your home on the market? Are you in a rush to sell? If your roof shows any signs of damage during a home inspection, your buyer will likely require that repairs be made or the entire roof replaced before signing the final contract. On the other hand, they may take on the project themselves in the future, but extend the negotiation process to land on a lower cost they’re comfortable with.
- What are you willing to invest to get the best price for your home? You may not see a 100% return on your new roof investment, but the good news is, a replacement roof increases your chances of getting the full asking price on your home. Because today’s homebuyers are looking for move-in ready homes, they are more likely to pay for convenience than they have in the past.
- What condition is your current roof in? Properly installed roofs with high-quality materials should last at least 20-25 years in Southern Illinois. Replacing a “middle-aged” roof that’s 10 to 12 years old is likely unnecessary, and most minor issues can be quickly and affordably repaired by an expert roofing installer like Crown Roofing & Exteriors. It may be more beneficial to spend your money on other similarly-priced upgrades like new flooring or modern lighting instead.
To determine if your roof needs a renovation, talk with your real estate agent and get their point of view on replacing your roof and the possible value it could add to your home. In addition, schedule a consultation with the roofing experts at Crown. We can provide a thorough inspection of your current roof to determine the next steps you should take before your big move. Call us today at 618.588.5300 for your free, no-obligation roof repair or roof replacement quote.