The average asphalt shingle roof has a lifespan of around 20 years. Even though higher quality roofing materials like slate can last up to half a century, it’s smart to inspect your roof around the 30-year mark or before you plan on selling your house.

Doing some repairs or replacing the roof is a good way to help your home sell faster and be more appealing to the market.

Here is an explanation of whether or not you should get a roof repair or replacement before you sell your house.

Structural Repairs are Crucial

Repairing large structural components of a home like a roof can be costly, but it’s what buyers are looking for when they tour homes.

The only time when the integrity status of your roof isn’t essential is if you plan on marketing the home as an investment tear down property. This is because those buyers are already expecting to put a lot of money into reconstructing the house.

The typical buyer, however, is normally looking for a structurally sound house that has a roof in good condition and will want to pay less for a home if they know that they’ll have to repair the roof in the future.

If you’re looking to get the most for your home, fixing your roof will help you get a sizable return on investment when you go to sell.

Signs that You Need a Roof Repair or Replacement

Minor issues like excess moss, small leaks, and crumbling shingle roofing material are signs that your roof will need some minor repairs.

You can have someone repair these minor issues by cleaning and replacing small sections of your roof where the problem areas are.

Major problems are things like excessive leaks, large holes, and missing shingles are signs that may require you to replace the whole roof.

This is a much more in-depth project that’ll take more money and time to fix.

How to Decide

Every home and local real estate market is different, so replacing your roof might not always be necessary.

It’s best to assess your current situation to help decide if replacing or repairing your roof is the right solution for you.

If your home is showing any signs that it’s on its last leg, you might want to consider hiring someone to take a look at it. They’ll be able to give you a clear idea of what exactly wrong and what needs to be done to fix the problem.

Take this information and compare it against the cost it will take, comparable housing sales, and the condition of the current local housing market. These things plus how long you can afford to have your home on the market will factor into your decision.

Increase Your Resale Value 

Completing a roof repair or an entire roof replacement before selling your home may reduce the time it’s on the market and help you sell your home fast. What’s most important is to do what makes the most sense for your situation and resale value.

Bonnier Roberts Reality has many resources and tips for realtors, home buyers, and FSBO.

Check out more of our articles to learn more about real estate marketing, selling, and investing.