Window brands cost vs reliability

[Rich Bultema]

Does the Biggerpockets community have a preference for window brands for flips or long term rentals? Are they the same window?

I am on my third deal and have already bought all and installed most windows for this deal but am asking for the future. Which windows strike the balance between low cost and good quality in your experience?

I have used the same brand and type of windows, Jeld-wen vinyl frame, on all 3 deals so far. I used a mixture of new construction type or replacement type in both single and double hung depending on the application of the window. I have chosen these windows almost purely on cost and availability from the home store I frequent.

The first deal was sold as a flip, so long term reliability wasn't that high on the list. The second deal turned into the BRRR strategy even though my original intention was to sell outright and that got me thinking that even if I INTEND to sell, I might have it for a while and suddenly long term quality becomes more important. Maybe I bought the wrong windows, maybe I bought the right ones but only by luck. I need to do more research.

My third deal, although I used the same brand, it was mostly out of what is now a habit and didn't have the time to really to put into shopping. This house and and following houses will likely be listed for sale and for rent at the same time to see what bites first.  This means I need to buy products that have a good life span but are reasonably priced enough to make a profit. On most products, I believe I am already doing that but am unsure about the windows.

So many things can look great when new but not last. 

I would like to hear if you guys have a preference for window brands and see if the buy and hold investors buy the same windows as fix and flips