Which Type of Window is Right for Your Home?

There are two situations wherein those navigating the property market need to start thinking about windows. First, the state of the windows is a natural part of any home appraisal during the viewing and, following on from that, any home buyer thinking about replacing the windows after purchasing a property needs to know a bit about which type of windows fit a particular property. For those hoping to renovate a home ahead of a sale too, a window replacement could be on the cards.

Should You Replace the Windows Ahead of a Sale?

CityHome Collective, a real estate brokerage specializing in luxury homes and condos, have some useful advice for those falling into that latter category. A window replacement will certainly increase the value of a home, but it is not a foregone conclusion that money can be made this way. While windows in a serious state of disrepair (i.e., when aesthetic concerns go out the window (pun definitely intended)) will have to be replaced, this can be an expensive job.

There are easier ways to make money on a home renovation, but this does not mean that home sellers shouldn’t pay attention the windows – sometimes it can be a profitable venture. The best way to find out is to enlist the expertise of a good local real estate brokerage; an in-depth knowledge of the local housing market is essential.

A Good Fit?

Some window types are much bigger value-adders than others. However, simply chasing the most fashionable windows is not a decision that should be made in isolation.

The reason for this is that, even the most fashionable windows can be ill-suited to a particular type of property. There are many intersecting factors here – usually all related to the overall architectural style and other structural considerations – and simply installing the most fashionable windows in your property will not necessarily boost value.

Different Types of Windows

Accordingly, the best way to learn about windows – where the property market is concerned – is to build up a good knowledge of the types of windows available. That way, you will have all the options before you.

Single- and Double-Hung Windows

These are most common types of windows. Single-hung means that only the top two windows can swing open, double-hung means that all four can. Being the most common, these windows do little to boost or subtract value. They are the safe bet.

Bay Windows

A bay window is the familiar set up of three windows at angles to each other. Bay windows bring in a great deal of light and are very elegant. However, installing them can be a massive job if the home is not already structurally suited.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are those which angle outwards when they open. They do not have a great deal of aesthetic potential (although they can be very neat and elegant) but their big advantage is ventilation. In warm regions, this can be a serious value-booster. They are also relatively cheap to install.

Slider Windows

The most important thing to say about slider windows is that they are actually doors. These windows make for an excellent all-round solution, providing lots of light, ventilation. and a whole new threshold for the home, either into the garden or onto a balcony. They might not suit every home and they are expensive to install, but they certainly add a lot of value in nearly all cases.

A home without windows is unthinkable so, if you are currently navigating the property market as either a buyer or a seller, they should be a primary consideration.