Flip (70 k to 100k) - Refinish Wood Windows or Buy new Vinyls

[Christopher Boggs]

We are doing a couple different flips in a neighborhood where the resale price is 70k to 100k depending on sqft and house features

They all have original double hung wood windows (6 panel lower and 1 piece uppers). The windows are in decent shape and have their storms, but they need refinishing. I am not sure if its worth it to re-finish the current ones or replace with new vinyls, so I figure my two options are:

1. Re-Finish the originals

- Pull the windows
- Replace the ropes
- scrape the paint
- Reglaze
- Repaint
- Reinstall

2. Buy new vinyls and have them installed

I am not sure if the Vinyls will add enough re-sale value to validate the cost, and I know cheap vinyl windows don't last that long and will haze up, but I also don't think most buyers take that into account.

What do you guys think?

[J Scott]

A couple questions you should ask yourself:

- Will the house pass FHA inspection if you keep the windows?
- What is the condition of your house relative to competitors?
- Is it a buyer's or seller's market in your area?
- Will replacing the windows reduce DOM significantly?
- What's the cost difference between replacing and repairing?