Odd Claim by Andersen Windows & Doors
Perhaps you’ve seen the latest ad by Andersen Windows & Doors on television.
The claim is that adding Andersen Windows to your house increases your home’s value by 15%. As you can see by the graphic from their website, they say “Realtors agree that Andersen products increase the value of a home by at least 15%”. The footnote says “2024 Andersen brand surveys of US builders and realtors.”
As a real estate appraiser with 22 years of experience, I can safely say that there is no guarantee of any individual product or improvement that can increase your home’s value across the board. There are a number of factors that must be taken into account.
Some thoughts:
1. What was the condition of the home prior to any update or improvement? Is it fully renovated except for windows? Is is in poor condition to such an extent that one update would not make much difference?
2. What is the price range of the neighborhood or competing properties? Generally, each neighborhood has a value range where buyers feel comfortable. If a neighborhood price range is $750,000 to $1,000,000 and the subject property is at the top of the size and quality range, and then gets new windows, would a buyer pay $1,150,000?
3. What was the quality of the windows before Andersen replacements? If the prior windows were top-grade Pella and the owner changed to Andersen for a different look or a more ‘historical’ aesthetic, it would be hard to imagine the value would increase by 15%.
Overall, please do your research before making an investment in windows if you are counting on a value increase from such an investment. I actually think Andersen windows are great quality, but I find this line of advertising a bit misleading.
