Are new windows worth it on a flip?

Question

I am flipping my first house and the house really could use all new windows. Online I am seeing 70% ROI for doing that, which obviously doesn't sound profitable. However I have my doubts on the accuracy of that. To save some money I could try and learn to do it myself and/or not do the garage windows (as that is an unheated space). I need some recommendations or guidance here if anyone has any.

Bill J Fay · Answer

Look down your street and see if most homes have newer windows or older. If your comps have updated windows and the current ones do not function 100%, this could hurt you on the sale. Instead of installing yourself to save money, I have found buying the windows myself and paying a skilled contractor per window still saves me 50% compared to window companies in my area.

Alan F. · Answer

Bill nailed the question, the answer you seek is in the comps. Forget about what "the internet" says. Don't get emotionally attached to a structure, think like a business. Some alternatives if you didn't calc this into ARV (which you should've) are reglazing, replacing key windows. Remember theres a difference between nee windows & retrofit. Get a bunch of estimates and aggregate the data.

Christian Ehlers · Answer

If you know any flippers in the area ask them what they would do as they'll have the local market knowledge for you to rely on. It depends how bad the windows are and also if buyers even care in your market, if you think it would be a turn off for buyers to see the original windows then I'd likely replace them.

Angela Martinez · Answer

• I would evaluate these two items: Condition of Existing Windows & Market Demands. Especially reviewing what other flips in the area are doing.

Kevin Ivey · Answer

I am on the side of how will it effect over all impressions move in no worries readiness and time on market.  If I put out a house that still has things to be done to make it competitive on the market for my target price you will sit on the market and/ or take a price cut.  Extended carrying costs especially if HML can change a deal quickly.

and I know few flippers who put their target ARV below the move in ready comps if not higher, lol

Steve K. · Answer

For me it would depend on if the windows are original and have "historic charm". If so and you're planning to keep as much of the original features of a classic home as possible, especially if it's in a historical district, then I'd consider restoring them. But if they're just crappy old cheap windows, I'd replace them. Replacing standard-sized windows isn't a hard job to DIY if you are handy. Rough cost for labor per window will run $100-300, again standard sized, more for oversized. You may need a permit though just FYI.

Jay Thomas · Answer

Deciding whether to invest in replacing windows for your flip house is a balancing act. While it can be a significant upfront cost, it comes with potential benefits for property value and energy efficiency.While the 70% ROI figure you've seen online may be an overestimation, replacing windows can still be a worthwhile investment for a house flip. Consider your target market; energy-conscious buyers might appreciate the value of new windows. Research the local market conditions to get a realistic view of the return on investment. Assess your skills and time commitment when deciding between DIY and professional installation. Keep in mind that replacing windows in living areas is a priority, but you can be more flexible with garage windows, especially if budget constraints are a concern. If you're aiming for energy efficiency, choose windows that meet those standards. Collect quotes from multiple contractors to ensure a fair price, and explore financing options if cash flow is tight, making the investment more manageable over time.

James McGovern · Answer

Replacing windows and the price really depends on the contractor you use. You will have to stay away from big brand names such as Jeld-wen and anderson. There are more affordable windows on the market.

Peter Mckernan · Answer

Could they use new windows in your mind, or is this market-dependent.. For instance, there are wood frame windows that for sure need to be switched out due to the actual inefficiencies, but if we are talking single versus double pane.. This is not an ROI that you will fully see.. Two things:

1. Aesthetics will get you a higher ROI than functionality. For example, a new roof in my market will cost $15K-$20K, and a kitchen will cost about the same. I will do a kitchen over a roof if the roof has 5 years left on it (caveat, if the roof is leaking today, replace it).2. Does the market call for you to replace the windows (upgrade them). Is there 5 comps in your market and 4 of them have replaced windows.. That may be something you add to the list due to the comparable properties in your area.

Kyle Ebersole · Answer

A couple of people have nailed it already but it depends on the area and the ARV you are shooting for! Are you shooting for a medium purchase price? Might get away with older windows. Are you going for the highest comp in the area? I'd definitely replace those windows.

Some other questions to think of:

1. How extensive of rehab are you doing? The things you don't replace will stick out like a sore thumb once everything else is new.

2. Do they work? If they work, try and keep them. If they don't, replace them.

3. Are they old wooden windows that are in good shape or need a ton of paint and TLC? If they're in good shape and fit your renovation plan, keep them. If they're in bad shape and need painting, might as well spend the money for new windows instead of putting lipstick on a them.

Hope this helps!

Are new windows worth it on a flip?

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