Should You Replace Your Roof Before Selling Your Home?

If you’re thinking about selling your home, you’re probably making a list of projects to boost curb appeal and home value — new paint, landscaping touch-ups, maybe a bathroom update. But what about your roof?


At Sexton Roofing & Siding, one of the most common questions we get from homeowners around Western Massachusetts is:

“Should I replace my roof before putting my house on the market?”

The short answer? It depends.


Let’s break down when it makes sense, what buyers are looking for, and whether the investment pays off in the long run.


Why Your Roof Matters to Buyers

Your roof is one of the first things potential buyers notice — and it can make or break their impression of your home. Even if the interior looks beautiful, an aging or visibly damaged roof raises immediate concerns about potential repairs and extra costs down the road.


A new or well-maintained roof signals:

  • The home has been cared for
  • Buyers won’t need to budget for a costly replacement right away
  • Protection from leaks, weather damage, and energy inefficiency


In competitive real estate markets like ours in Western Mass, that peace of mind can be a significant selling point.


What’s the ROI on a New Roof?

According to national real estate data, replacing a roof before selling can offer a return on investment (ROI) of about 55-70%. However, its actual value lies in making your home more marketable and selling it faster.


Benefits of replacing your roof before selling
:

  • Higher asking price potential
  • More buyer interest and showings
  • Fewer issues flagged during home inspections
  • Smoother negotiations (and fewer last-minute repair credits)
  • Faster closing time

In some cases, sellers have recouped even more than average, especially if the old roof was in poor shape or if buyers were deciding between multiple listings.


When Should You Replace the Roof Before Selling?

Consider a replacement if:

  • Your roof is 20+ years old
  • Shingles are missing, curling, or visibly damaged
  • There’s evidence of leaks or water stains in the attic or ceilings
  • Buyers in your neighborhood expect newer, move-in-ready homes

On the other hand, if your roof is in good condition with plenty of life left, a professional inspection and minor repairs may be enough to reassure buyers and satisfy home inspection requirements.


Pro Tip: Highlight a New Roof in Your Listing

If you do invest in a new roof, make sure your real estate agent features it prominently in your home’s listing description and during showings.

“New roof ” is a significant selling point that buyers love to see — and it can help set your property apart in a crowded market.


Thinking About Selling? Let’s Check Your Roof First.

Before listing your home, it’s worth getting a professional roof inspection to assess its condition and explore your options. At Sexton Roofing & Siding, we offer honest, pressure-free advice to homeowners throughout Western Massachusetts.

Whether you need a simple repair, a roof tune-up, or a complete replacement, we’ll help you make the best decision for your home and your budget.


Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection and get your home market-ready with confidence!

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Improve your home’s winter insulation in Western Massachusetts with energy-efficient windows that reduce drafts, heat loss, and heating costs.
November 24, 2025
How Long Should Your Roof Really Last in Massachusetts Weather? Let’s be honest, no one thinks about their roof until there’s a leak, a missing shingle, or a surprise brown stain on the ceiling. But in a place like Western Massachusetts, where snow, wind, and summer heat hit hard, your roof is working overtime. So, how long should your roof actually last in our climate? The honest answer: it depends. But here’s what you should know so you can plan, avoid surprises, and protect your home (and wallet).
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