Boost Spring Valuations: Is Upgrading to Double Glazing Still a Top ROI?
Come spring, the property market always picks up pace. As an estate agent, you know the questions start flooding in from homeowners wanting to maximise their sale price. Top of the list for many? Windows. Specifically, is splashing out on new double glazing actually going to deliver a worthwhile return when they sell? It’s a question that deserves a considered answer, especially in today’s climate.
Let’s cut to the chase, energy efficiency is huge right now. Buyers are scrutinising those Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings like never before. Upgrading from single panes or ancient, blown double glazing can genuinely lift that EPC rating. A better rating isn’t just a nice-to-have; it flags up lower running costs, making the property instantly more appealing and potentially easier to sell closer to the asking price. For landlords too, a better EPC widens the pool of potential tenants.
But the benefits aren’t purely about saving money on bills. Think about the actual living experience. Good quality double glazing makes a home noticeably warmer in winter, sure, but it also helps stop rooms turning into greenhouses during summer heatwaves. That year-round comfort factor is a subtle but powerful selling point – people want to feel comfortable in their homes.
Then there’s the noise factor, particularly crucial in urban settings or near transport links. Decent double glazing can dramatically cut down on external noise intrusion. For buyers sensitive to noise, or those simply wanting a peaceful retreat, this can be a deal-maker. It turns a potential negative (‘it’s a bit noisy round here’) into a positive (‘surprisingly quiet inside’).
Security is another key consideration homeowners value. Modern units, particularly with robust frames featuring multi-point locks, offer far better protection than older windows. Highlighting enhanced security features in property particulars definitely resonates with buyers looking for peace of mind.
And we can’t ignore simple kerb appeal. Old, peeling, or condensation-filled windows drag down the entire look of a house. Crisp, clean new windows – whether smart uPVC, contemporary aluminium, or classic timber – instantly make a property look better maintained and more desirable. That first impression counts for a lot when buyers pull up outside.
So, when calculating the return on investment, don’t just think about adding value directly to the price tag, although that’s part of it. Consider the ‘saleability’ factor. A house with good double glazing is often perceived as needing less immediate work, potentially leading to a quicker sale and fewer awkward negotiations about replacement costs down the line. It removes an objection before it’s even raised.
Of course, the quality of the product and, just as importantly, the installation, matters immensely. Advise clients to use reputable firms, ideally registered with FENSA or CERTASS. This ensures compliance with building regs (especially Part L for thermal performance) and gives buyers confidence in the quality of the work.
In conclusion? Yes, in most situations, recommending an upgrade to good quality double glazing remains sound advice. The combination of tangible energy savings, improved comfort, better security, noise reduction, and enhanced kerb appeal ticks a lot of boxes for today’s buyers and renters. It’s an investment that addresses modern priorities and demonstrably adds value, making it a smart move for homeowners looking to sell this spring.
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