Before you put your house up for sale, there are a couple of things you must put together both in and out of the house to get a good deal out of it. Some of these fixes are more obvious than others, like a new paint coat, wall dents, and landscaping. Now, one of the things many homeowners aren’t sure of is the roof replacement. Hence, we get many questions like “Should you sell your home without replacing your roof?” and “Is replacing your roof before selling your home a good investment?”
In this article, we will answer these question by discussing the factors to consider before deciding if your roof needs a replacement before the sale. We will also discuss everything else you need to know.
Factors to Consider for Replacing Your Roof Before Selling Your Home

Roof’s State and Status
Your roof’s current condition is a significant factor in determining whether you change your roof before selling your home. The longevity of a roof depends on several factors, including installation, location, material type, and quality. Therefore, to determine if your roof is in good condition, you have to assess it with the help of a professional. Suppose there are underlying roof problems that may be a turnoff for potential buyers. In that case, they will inform you and recommend the best solution.
Total Project Cost
To replace a roof entirely, you need to be ready to spend about $5,000 to $10,000, as that’s an estimate of how much it will cost. However, the exact amount you will pay will depend on some factors. They include the roof pitch, square footage, ventilation, number of penetrations, and tear-off and dumping fees. According to an analysis by the National Association of Realtors, installing a new roof before resale can get you about 107% of its cost. This is why many homeowners do everything they can to replace their roofs when they intend to sell their properties. However, if your roof is still in its prime and your roofing contractor certifies that it’s in excellent condition, replacing it before selling your home may not be necessary.
Urgency of Your Home’s Resale
The current housing market condition greatly influences the urgency of replacing your roof before selling your home. In addition, you will need to make efforts to ensure that your properties are convincing and attractive enough for purchase.
Housing Market Closeby
Knowing how competitive the housing market is in your demography is essential, especially if you aren’t using a real estate agent for your property’s sale. You can do this by researching available properties in your area with a price range similar to yours and checking if they have new roofs. Look out for the speed at which they sell. Suppose there is no significant difference in the selling rate of properties without new roofs and ones with new roofs. In that case, you may stick with doing only repairs and save some money.
Benefits of Replacing Your Roof Before Selling Your Home
Boosts Your Home’s Value
Installing a new roof on your home will increase its worth. This is, in fact, the most significant benefit of replacing your roof before selling your home. As we mentioned earlier, there are facts showing how a roof replacement increases a home’s sale cost. However, some factors decide how much boost your new roof price will get, including the housing market and roofing material. Notwithstanding, a new roof is a good investment and will always boost your home’s resale value.
Although the initial investment might shake you a bit, you can rest assured that you will make your money back and can get up to 60% ROI.
Elevates Home’s Appeal
Your home becomes more appealing to potential buyers when you replace your roof before selling because a new roof will improve your home’s curb appeal. When you install a new roof on your home, especially the more appealing options, it gives your home a fresh, attractive look.
Gives Potential Buyers Assurance in the Home’s Functionality
A roof is a home’s first defense; a new roof means assured security and protection. Additionally, it functions as a means of beautifying your home. Therefore, replacing your roof before selling your home assures potential buyers that they and their properties are safe. They don’t have to worry about dealing with roofing issues or replacing their roof anytime soon, especially after spending a lot of money purchasing a new property.
Drawbacks of Replacing Your Roof Before Selling Your Home
High Initial Cost
Before selling your home, the main downside of a roof replacement project is the total project costs. Installing a new roof is no child’s play. It is capital-intensive, and there’s no 100% warranty that you will make back the money you spent on the replacement when you sell.
Housing Market Factors
Your local housing market influences how much value a new roof will add to your home’s value. Hence, the variation. If potential buyers in your location do not care about the roof’s age, replacing your roof before selling your home may not significantly improve your property’s worth.
Roof Replacement Vs. Roof Repair Before Selling Your Home

When there is a problem with your roof, there are two ways to resolve it after getting help from a professional: repair or replacement. The solution depends on your roofing contractor’s diagnosis and solution. Suppose your roof is drawing close to the end of its lifespan or has significant damage. In that case, the better solution will be a total roof replacement. However, if the problems are minor, you may need a roof repair. Still, the best person to decide the fate of your roof is your roofing contractor. Therefore, you must ensure that you hire only a skilled and reliable one.
As soon as you know the problem and how to tackle it, ask your roofer to estimate a repair or complete replacement. This helps you draw up a budget and how you can handle the project successfully without breaking your back.
Conclusion
Replacing your roof before selling your home is a crucial decision, and it’s up to you. If your roof is no longer in its prime and has had its fair share of hardship, you might consider replacing it. The benefits are numerous and outweigh the drawbacks, particularly the initial cost, which is quite intensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a new roof add value to your home?
A new roof adds value to your home. Beyond the elevation of your home’s appearance, it improves your home’s energy efficiency and offers reliable protection. These qualities make the home more appealing.
How often should you replace your roof?
There is no fixed answer. However, before you start to consider replacing your roof, you should have used up to about 80-90% of its estimated lifespan.