When Selling Your Home Do You Need to Replace the Roof?

When Selling Your Home Do You Need to Replace the Roof? Are you planning to sell your home? You need to consider what needs to be repaired or replaced in your house before you sell. One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is what to do with your roof. Do you need to fix the roof, or will you need to replace the entire roof in order to sell the house?

There are several factors to consider before deciding whether to repair or replace your roof before selling your home, including the age and condition of the roof, what materials were used, and the climate in which you live.

Following are a few guidelines that will help you determine whether to repair or replace your roof.

When Selling Your Home Do You Need to Replace the Roof?

When to Repair Your Roof

Partially damaged roofs, such as those damaged by storms, aging, or other conditions, may not need to be replaced completely. It is often better, and less expensive, to replace a portion of your roof rather than the entire roof when damage is limited to one section.

Forgoing any roof repairs may seem like a cost-effective solution, but it might end up costing more in the long run.  As most buyers assume that they will have to replace the roof themselves, they expect to pay less. In the event you do not plan to make roof repairs before selling your home, you will likely have to lower your asking price to offset the cost a potential buyer will pay to repair the roof, which can cost you thousands of dollars.

Whether you choose to have the repairs done by a roofing expert or not, you should get their professional opinion on the effect on your home’s resale value.

When to Replace Your Roof

If your home has an aged or severely damaged roof, you’ll have a very difficult time selling it. You’d be better off selling it with an attractive roof instead. The home has to meet many requirements to be eligible for Federal Housing Administration and Veteran’s Administration financing. The home must have at least two years of life left and be free of leaks, as well as moisture.

The insurance company that will offer the homeowner’s insurance is even more strict. Before providing any coverage, they will send someone out to inspect the roof to ensure that it is in good condition. The buyer will very likely not be able to purchase insurance until the roof has been deemed acceptable.

Consider the last time your roof was replaced and which materials were used. This will help you determine whether a roof replacement is necessary. Most steel and aluminum metal roofing systems come with a warranty that ranges from 30 to 50 years, as opposed to the lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof.

It is a wise move to replace your roof before you sell if your roof has extensive damage, regardless of age. A new roof does not directly increase the resale value of a house, but it could be a huge advantage in a competitive market when potential buyers compare your home to other homes in the area since it is considered home maintenance. Therefore, more time can be spent on the market and more money can be made.

If you are listing your home, the phrase “new roof” is a great marketing tool that will make your home more appealing to potential buyers. This eases potential buyers’ concerns about leaks and problems, as well as giving them a sense of security that they aren’t going to have to replace the roof anytime soon.

A professional roofing contractor should be consulted before attempting to sell your home, regardless of of the shape your roof is in. Contact Mississippi Landsource for more information about selling your home in Mississippi and all of the factors like a roof, windows, and others that could affect the selling price of your home.