Life is full of transitions and milestones. The decision to sell a home and move onto something bigger and better is often one of them. Homeowners looking to move forward with real estate options have a lot to consider before a house hits the market. It’s important to take time to evaluate features of a home that will increase value, attract buyers and enhance final offers.

 One of the most vital elements to any home is the heating system. Across the country, many homes are outfitted with a furnace that uses forced air to create a comfortable and temperature-regulated atmosphere inside.

Before putting a home on the market, many homeowners wonder whether a new furnace installation is worth the investment. Some assume a furnace installation will increase the value of a home.

Furnace Evaluation Checklist 

Others see it as a costly option without significant return. The following are a few things to consider when you’re trying to decide if a furnace installation is a right choice.

Assess the Condition of the Existing Unit

Not every prospective buyer is expecting a brand-new furnace in a potential home. However, nobody is going to be impressed by an outdated furnace in need of constant repairs.

After a furnace installation, homeowners can expect a unit to function for anywhere from 15 to 20 years on average. It’s important to keep in mind that reaching this lifespan requires homeowners to invest in regular maintenance over the years.

Homeowners who have kept up with repairs and inspections during their time in the property may be more comfortable leaving a furnace as is. A fully functioning furnace with an excellent maintenance track record is a good selling point, regardless of the furnace’s age.

Alternatively, those who have been less vigilant about keeping up with annual maintenance may want to consider moving ahead with a new furnace installation. Any existing issues will inevitably come up in a whole home inspection.

Any issues found during an inspection of this type will lead to a replacement recommendation. Investing in a furnace installation before the inspection keeps homeowners ahead of the curve. It also eliminates problems with showing the home to prospective buyers later.

Consider Your Profit Target

A furnace installation is a significant investment. However, it could be easily offset in comparison to the profit you’re hoping to make off a home’s successful sale.

When deciding whether to install a new furnace before putting a home on the market, be sure to consider what you’re hoping to gain financially as well. Some buyers will use the fact that the home has an older furnace as a negotiation point to lower the sale price.

Homeowners who are open to these types of negotiations may feel comfortable leaving an older model in place. Those committed to a certain price point will likely lean more towards replacing an old furnace with something new and energy-efficient instead.

Make Sure Not to Overlook Your Sale Timeline

The timeline in which homeowners are hoping to have their property sold can also impact the decision to replace a furnace (or not). Those who don’t have much time to work with will want to look at the benefit of a replacement attracting buyers more quickly.

On the other hand, hanging onto the current unit could be the right choice if there’s plenty of time to spare. As long as the system is functioning well and doesn’t show any issues, buyers will likely feel comfortable with what’s in place.

Factor in Local Buyer Preferences

These days, many prospective home buyers are looking for energy-efficient elements that make the property more eco and energy friendly overall. Not only is this a bonus for the environment, but it lends itself to savings on energy bills, as well.

If you know that prospective buyers in your area value smart technology and an eco-friendly approach to homeownership, investing in a new furnace could be a great move. A furnace installation of this type allows sellers to authentically market their property as energy-efficient and a move that will help buyers save money on monthly bills.

Furnace Experts, You Can Count On

From furnace installation and repair to maintenance and more, at Paul the Plumber, we handle it all. Keeping your home comfortable and running smoothly is what we do best.

Reach out today to learn more about our many heating services and to schedule your next appointment. Our team of experienced and customer-focused technicians is ready to get the job done right!