If there is any damage to your roof before you sell it, then it will not go unnoticed. Appraisers, home inspectors, prospective buyers and realtors all will check the integrity of the home to determine if roof or exterior repair or replacement is necessary. While you may be able to get away with selling a home with a damaged roof, you are not likely to maximize your value for the home, and it may sit on the market much longer than you like.
This guide should help you determine if you can sell your home with the roof the way it is or if the roof requires repair or replacement before it is listed.
When You Should Repair Your Roof Before Selling Your Home
The first thing you should do if you are concerned with the quality of your roof is to have a roofing expert conduct a professional roof inspection. They can make a professional recommendation to see if it needs repair, replacement or is fine the way it is. In general, a roof will need repair if it only has minor to moderate partial damage. It may also need repair if it is in overall good condition but has not received routine maintenance in an extended period of time.
The goal is to ensure the roof is in good enough quality to where the home buyer does not have to make repairs themselves. If a cost analysis determines you can maximize the home’s sell price through repairs, then you will not need to replace the roof. However, leaving a partially damaged roof the way it is could lead to issues with the home closing process and cause you to compromise on the selling price as the home buyer will anticipate needing to make the repairs on their own.
When You Should Replace Your Roof Before Selling Your Home
A roof that has extensive damage caused by bad weather or excessive wear and tear will make it very hard to sell the home. This is because extensive damage to the roof not only indicates a need for roof replacement, but it has a high likelihood of leading to other concerns such as moisture and water damage in the home. In addition, a severely damaged roof is certain to fail a home inspection during the home closing process, regardless of the age of the roof.
On the other hand, being able to advertise a “new roof” is a huge marketing advantage in real estate, especially in competitive housing markets. It is almost always financially advantageous to replace a significantly damaged roof as it will allow the home to sell for more money and much quicker than it otherwise would.
What Happens If I Do Not Replace My Damaged Roof?
If you do not repair or replace a damaged roof, then it will make it very difficult to sell the home. This is because you will not be able to hide the roof damage. During the home closing process, the home inspector, appraiser, buying agent and buyer will check the condition of the roof. If there are concerns, they can either order it to be fixed or suggest that the price be lowered to accommodate the needed repairs.
In other instances, it will completely deter prospective buyers from considering the home. By not fixing the home in a timely manner by repairing or replacing it, then it is likely to sit on the market longer than you would like and ultimately not sell for the asking price. It is generally more financially beneficial to have a professional repair or replace the damaged or worn-down parts of the roof.
How Much Value Can A New Roof Add To My Home?
Every roof is different, and the added value of a new roof depends on a range of factors, including the condition of the roof before it is fixed and the materials that are used for the new roof. The best way to determine how much value a new roof can add to your home is to consult with an experienced roofing contractor.
How Long Does A Roof Repair Or Replacement Take?
Roof repair or replacement can take anywhere from a day to several weeks, depending on the size of the roof, weather conditions and other factors.
However, most roof replacements are completed within a week. This allows you to repair or replace your damaged roof before you list it and to give yourself a better chance of selling the home quickly.
Speak With The Northern VA Roofing Contractors At Adelphia Exteriors
If you are planning on selling your home or simply want to ensure you have a reliable roof and increase the appraised value of your home, then reach out to our Northern Virginia roofing contractors at Adelphia Exteriors today by calling (703) 386-7357 or fill out our online contact form.