Purchasing a brand new roof is a pretty “un-fun” way to spend your money, but it may make a big difference in the process of selling your home. It is a costly repair, though, and sometimes deciding whether to replace or repair your roof before selling your home can be complicated. So should you make that roof repair or try to sell “as-is”? Here are some things to consider.

A roof that is nearing end of life or in serious disrepair will surely become a negotiating point, and buyers will expect to pay less. If you are willing to price your home accordingly, this might be fine, but if you’re not, you’ll want to make the necessary replacement or repairs to get top dollar. Be sure to get estimates from 2 to 3 roofing specialists in your area. A new roof can be a selling point, and any major system or big ticket item that is new, well maintained, and in good working order can lead to a faster sale due to more confident buyers who likely are willing to pay a bit more for piece of mind. You’ll want to know everything you can about your home’s condition. Even if it isn’t a full roof replacement or a leak repair, cleaning off that moss or replacing those missing shingles are smaller repairs that can build buyer confidence. Little issues that catch potential buyers’ eyes can cause hesitation and create anxiety about the condition of your home. If your roof is just getting on in age, you might choose to have it inspected and serviced by a roofing contractor who will then certify it for 3 to 5 years to alleviate buyer concern regarding age.

You may be able to skip a roof repair if you are lucky enough to be in a market where your home will be desirable enough for buyers to look past it. You also may choose to price your home below market value to attract buyers who are looking for a deal. And if you just plain don’t have the money, disclose what you know and prepare yourself for lowering your price for buyers accordingly.

If you DO elect to take on the costly repair or replacement of your roof, be SURE to finish the job by addressing any interior evidence of water! If your leaky roof has caused water spots or damage to your ceilings, have an experienced painter repair and repaint the spots or carefully research how to DIY. You will need a good quality primer…a simple coat of ceiling paint will NOT permanently cover water spots. Repairing secondary interior blemishes from roof damage is essential. Even if you have fixed or even completely replaced your roof, water spots will raise eyebrows and cause unnecessary suspicion of existing leaks, which would be a shame after making such a pricey repair. Build buyer confidence and enhance your sale price with a full and comprehensive repair, inside and out!

Water spots on ceilings can draw attention to leaks, even if they’ve already been addressed. Make sure to repair ceiling spots and damage as part of the roof repair before you list your home.

Thinking of selling your home or need help finding the perfect one for your family?

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