At Renewal by Andersen we understand that investing in replacement windows for your New Jersey or New York home is a serious decision. You have a lot to think about and this shouldn’t be a quick decision. If you’re like many homeowners you’re concerned about how installing replacement windows and patio doors is going to impact your finances.
That’s definitely a valid concern. Here are a few ways that new home windows will influence your budget.
Paying for Your Replacement Windows
Anytime you make a large investment, you should consider your immediate and your long term returns. If you have cash on hand in a savings account, you know that interest rates are still low. At the time of this article the average interest rate on a bank savings account in New Jersey was around 1 percent. That means if you have $13,000 in a savings account, you’re probably only earning around $131 a year beyond the original deposits. It makes sense to convert that cash into a home improvement project that could help you reduce heating and air conditioning bills every month for as long as you live in your home.
If you don’t have cash on hand, there are other ways to finance your upgrades. Home equity and second mortgage loans are two options. Some people choose to use a credit card. A word of caution here. If you’re thinking about using a credit card, talk to your card company to negotiate interest rates before ordering your new replacement windows. Credit card rates vary depending on your credit score, past payment history, your income and a number of other factors. Rates range from 6.99 percent up to 24.99 percent, or more, depending on the card company and your credit worthiness. Most credit card companies will review the rate for customers in good standing.
Also ask your replacement window dealer if they offer financing. At the time of this writing, Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro is offering 0 money down, 0 percent interest and 0 payments for one year financing to qualified buyers.
Reducing Your Monthly Expenses
Upgrading your home with high-quality, Energy-Star certified replacement windows and patio door can potentially help you save between 10 percent and 25 percent off your monthly heating and cooling expenses depending on the overall condition of your home and your current windows. For many people, that can add up to hundreds of dollars.
Comparing Prices
In New York and New Jersey, consumers have choices. Replacement windows come in a variety of styles, brands and price ranges. Choosing high-quality windows is the key to making the right choice. Often the “extras” that aren’t immediately visible – like gas fill, high-end fixtures and factory coatings that block UV rays add the most value to your purchase.
Wood windows are often considered the first choice of people renovating a historic home or a residence that requires specialty exterior colors. But beware, wood frames typically come with a higher price tag than vinyl or metal frames and they require regular maintenance to protect them from the ravages of time and weather. While vinyl frames are less expensive than wood, they move a great deal with changes in temperature and can warp and pull away from the building envelope, resulting in leaks.
We recommend Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex composite replacement window frames because they offer all the benefits of wood, without the higher price tag and all the advantages of vinyl without having to worry you’ll need to replace them in a few years.
Capturing a Higher Return on Investment
Anytime you update your home with new fixtures, you stand to gain equity and improve resale value. Building equity in your home means you will be in a better position when it’s time to sell your home or you need (or want) to refinance. Buyers love “new,” whether it’s new appliances, a new bathroom or new windows. New means less maintenance and more convenience. Modern windows make it possible to keep your home comfortable and beautiful, plus you have the peace of mind that your family is safe with features like multi-point locking and recessed locks that deter easy access.
Installing replacement windows shouldn’t be a quick decision. The upgrades will impact your monthly budget and long term financial goals. Modern technology and composite materials like Fibrex make it possible for you to lower your monthly utility bills and increase the value of your property without going into debt over your head. We invite you to give us a call to schedule a home inspection today. Reach us toll-free at (866) 609-5033. If you prefer, you can fill in the short form on this page to request more information or a call back at your convenience.
Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows
