CAN NEW WINDOWS ADD VALUE TO YOUR SCOTTISH HOME?

Whether you’re trying to sell your home in Scotland or not, we all want to know that the improvements we make to our homes add value. Many customers ask themselves, ‘can double glazing add value to my home?’, and it depends on many different factors. If you’re thinking about adding new windows to your property, here are some things to consider.

Improving the look of your home

New windows can add a lease of life to your home and can improve your house’s kerb appeal. The property market in Scotland can be competitive, especially in areas such as Glasgow and Dundee, and so it’s important to add something that makes your home stand out. New UPVC windows are an excellent home improvement and make a big difference to the external look of your property.

Improving energy efficiency

When you put your home up for sale, you’ll have to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) certificate which shows the energy efficiency rating of your home. Many double-glazing companies offer highly efficient windows, which can improve your rating, making your home more attractive to potential buyers. New windows can improve your energy efficiency by:

• Stopping heat loss in winter
• Keeping your home cooler in summer
• Stopping draughts that increase energy bills
• Reducing condensation

While you might not think the EPC will make much difference, people who buy in Scotland will want to know their estimated energy bills, especially during the winter months, so new windows can potentially help you sell quicker.

Making your home look well-maintained

If you’ve ever looked around a property, you’ll get a certain feeling as to whether it has been loved and well looked after. Unfortunately, if buyers turn up to a house and see older fixtures such as single glazing, this can be really off-putting as it makes them wonder what else might be wrong. Adding replacement windows is one way to show that your home has been looked after and that you’ve taken maintenance seriously over the years. Many buyers will walk around a home and mentally ‘knock off’ value as they see things they’ll need to do themselves. By adding new windows, you remove a job for them, and ensure your home is in move-in ready condition.

Cost versus value added

When deciding whether to add double glazing, it’s worth considering the cost of replacement versus the potential value. Window replacement might seem like a costly addition for a house you want to sell, but many property experts estimate it can add up to 10% to the value of your home. In areas such as Edinburgh where prices are already high, this can potentially give you a good return on your investment. Be sure to get the right price on your windows, and you could enjoy the benefits in the long run.

When your home needs new windows, the Window Advice Centre can help you get the right ones at the best price. Simply call 0141 332 7878 or e-mail enquiries@windowadvicecentre.co.uk to find out more.