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Plastic Film on Windows - Is That A No-No When Selling

Recently while looking for properties for a first time homebuyer,

I came across a photograph of a lovely older home. As I added the charming home to my list for showing, a certain thing caught my eye: "Plastic film on the windows".

Buyers have concerns about fuel costs, and homes being efficient. The plastic film may save (somewhat) on fuel costs, but detracts from its attractiveness for a better sale price for the seller.

To me, it states: need to replace windows.

What do you think???

Posted by Ruthman Real Estate on 01/18/2009 10:12 AM

Comments (11)

windows, fuel, costs, buyers, sellers, fairfield, connecticut, ruthman, real estate, efficient, green, nyc

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11 Comments on Plastic Film on Windows - Is That A No-No When Selling

JAN

That is a great thought provoking question!! I have to agree with what direction I think you're leaning towards...remove the plastic.

I agree. It can sometimes be obvious that windows in an older home need replacing once you see the home in person but if I were the listing agent I certainly wouldn't advertise it. Perhaps the home is very charming and could be a great fit for your buyers but seeing that photo may keep them from every wanting to see it. That is a real disservice to the seller in my opinion. Thanks for the post.

I find it amazing that the listing agent doesn't tell people to even clean their breakfast dishes, let alone take plastic off windows.

As inexpensive as the plastic is to replace, it should be removed from the windows before anyone looks at the house.

I'll cast another vote for removing the plastic - for sure! I'm not a fan of replacing original windows and choose to restore the windows instead. If you haven't rehabbed your windows then plastic, insulated shades, putty, etc. can all be of help to keep out the cold. I think they're smart, money and energy conscious things to do but you don't sell your place like you live in it. You definitely don't want to advertise "We're cold!" when you're selling your house.

Liz

Mark Organek - Tempe Gilbert Mesa Chandler REALTOR (RE/MAX Alliance): I know I worded my thoughts right down the middle between buying and selling. The plastic on the windows won't help either side.

Thank you for commenting!

Karen Parsons-Fiddler (Great Western Realty Group: Yes, I think the plastic should come off! :)

Many thanks for commenting!

Dan and Amy Schuman,e-Pro,ASP (Keller Williams Realty Greater Cleveland)

Isn't amazing what some ignore in a photo. If "it" is in the picture...it is in the marketing. (Not good!)

Best wishes and thank you for commenting!

Lorrie Shaw (PPS): You have a definite point! :)

Thank you very much for commenting!

Elizabeth Bolton - Cambridge MA Real Estate Agent (Coldwell Banker Cambridge, Massachusetts): You are gal after my own heart. I like the beauty of the original windows... (At least these windows were covered in plastic, I have seen owners put blankets over their windows...yuck!)

All my best! Thank you for commenting.

Yes I would say that is a big no, no. Not only does it not look very nice, and raises concerns about fuel costs, but it also brings attention to the windows being older and that they maybe in need of being replaced.

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