Getting your home ready to sell is no mean feat. The state of your property’s exterior creates a strong first impression, and it’s important to boost its appeal before opening your home to buyers. And one of the most important elements of your home to consider is your roof. While a young roof still in good condition may only need some minor maintenance or repairs, older and less structurally sound roofs may need a total replacement. 

If you’re a Louisiana homeowner unsure of what your roof needs or how to go about replacing it, you’re in luck. WestBank Roofing is here to help. With over 50 years of experience in the roofing business, we can provide inspections, guidance and installation services to help you make the best and most cost-effective choices possible. And we’ll start by explaining how replacing your roof before a sale can offer benefits to both buyers and sellers.

How Do Roof Replacements Benefit Homeowners?

Unfortunately, homeowners likely won’t be gaining the benefits a new roof can provide to residents for long, if at all. However, you may be able to reap several rewards from the sale process, including:

  1. Improved curb appeal

While much of your roof may be concealed from up close, it is still a prominent part of your house. A poor-quality, damaged, debris-covered or mismatched roof may negatively impact the unity of your property’s exterior, as well as its curb appeal. That is, how attractive a property looks to a prospective buyer when viewed from the sidewalk. A new roof which suits your property design and utilizes quality materials, on the other hand, may boost buyer confidence, as well as their first impression of the building.

  1. Higher perceived value

While you’re unlikely to recoup the entire cost of your roof replacement from your home’s sale, you may get at least 60% of it back. This is because a new roof often boosts the appraisal value of your home due to factors including its appearance and energy efficiency. It may also provide peace of mind for buyers, as a new roof is unlikely to need repairs in the near future.  

  1. Quicker sale process

A roof in visible need of major repairs may spend more time on the market, forcing you to spend more to maintain your property and potentially dissuading buyers the longer it goes unsold. A new, modern roof may allow you to avoid these problems by boosting buyer confidence in its durability and performance. It may also indicate that you care about your property, reducing buyer fears about the state of your property’s interior.

  1. Fewer negotiation issues

Issues with your roof may lead to buyers requesting repairs be made before the sale or negotiating a lower price. Roof inspections which turn up issues unknown to the buyer and/or seller may also complicate negotiations. By replacing your roof prior to listing your home, you may be able to alleviate buyer concerns and even make more money from the sale. And if your roofing warranty is transferable, discussing this during negotiations may increase your property value even further. 

Benefits of a New Roof for Prospective Buyers

Outside of aesthetic appeal, why does a new roof matter so much to prospective buyers, and how can it benefit them in the long-term? Buyers may look for properties with new roofs for reasons including:

  1. Reduced immediate repair or refurbishment costs

Barring damaging inclement weather or other issues, a new roof is unlikely to need repairs in the near future. This reduces the immediate costs a buyer will need to worry about, potentially raising their interest in the property and setting it apart from other homes on the market.

  1. Greater structural stability

Similarly, a new roof made from modern materials is likely to last for several decades yet. It may also have a greater chance of withstanding inclement weather conditions such as hail, storms and extended heat waves. And the higher quality the roofing materials, the more interested buyers may be. Metal, slate, synthetic, and clay or cement roofing materials—among others—may offer both durability and an attractive appearance. Features such as custom seamless gutters, which have fewer seams and thus a reduced chance of leaks, may also boost buyer confidence in the structural integrity of your property.

  1. Improved energy efficiency

A new roofing system, when installed by a reputable company, will have none of the cracks, leaks, clogs or other issues which may reduce energy efficiency. Fresh insulation, ventilation and roofing materials allow air to circulate through your attic as intended, bringing in cool air and flushing out heat and humidity. This, in turn, keeps your air conditioner from having to strain in order to cool your property, reducing the chance of a premature breakdown. As an added benefit, an energy-efficient cooling system consumes less energy, reducing utility costs.

When to Avoid Replacing Your Roof Before Selling Your Home

Of course, installing a new roof may not always be feasible or necessary for homeowners. Replacing a relatively new roof in good condition is an unnecessary expense, though some minor repairs and a good cleaning would not go amiss. Also consider your timeline and budget; if the property needs to be sold sooner than later, or if you cannot afford the replacement, then avoid scheduling one. Roof replacements can be time-intensive and costly, and you may be better off pricing your home slightly lower to offset some of the buyer’s expenses. In this case, mention any known issues with your roof to prospective buyers so they are prepared ahead of time. Additionally, consider conducting maintenance and repairs such as cleaning the roof and gutters and fixing minor damage in order to make your property as appealing as possible. 

Maximize Your Home’s Value by Scheduling a Roof Replacement with WestBank Roofing Today

While replacing your roof is a major investment, it may be a necessary—and even beneficial—one when it comes to selling your home. Obvious and/or significant roofing concerns may lead to hesitation from buyers, stalling the sale process and raising your expenses. A new roof and a clean bill of health from an inspector, however, may increase buyer confidence in the property as a whole, as well as smooth over negotiations. 

If you’re a Louisiana homeowner considering a roof replacement, WestBank Roofing is here to help. Our experienced team, as well as our Fortified and GAF roofing certifications, allow us to complete your roof installation quickly, efficiently and at a competitive price. And if you have questions or concerns during the process, our contractors will be happy to help. We can provide professional advice and guidance before, during and after your roof replacement in order to ensure that you are as informed and confident as possible. 

Looking to plan a roof installation before selling your home? WestBank Roofing has you covered. Just give us a call or send us a message to schedule a consultation today.