With Fall and Winter soon on its way, I have been receiving question like "should I replace them or not, will I see a return or not" etc..   and so I have put together this quick and easy guide for upgrading your windows.

So Consider this:

If they’re doing their job properly, you should not notice the windows in your house at all, But if you are in the market for an upgrade, there are tons of options that can add value to your home and make a stylish statement.

Why replace your windows?
Windows play a huge role in the energy efficiency of your home, but that’s not all they do; if you’re planning on selling your house in the next year or two, new windows are a huge selling feature. They are actually one of the top five things buyers ask about the home, so the investment can and will add considerable value. New Windows also instantly create curb appeal and can make a dated exterior look fresh and modern.

The checklist
Here are some telltale signs that your windows need replacing. Inspect them regularly for the following:

• Drafts
• Condensation and fogging
• Rot or mould
• Cracked caulking

High vs. Low
When buying windows, look for:

• High R-value – determines how well the window prevents heat loss.
• Low emissivity – reflects the heat to the warm side of the glass.

• Installation options

You have two choices for Window installation: retrofitting (inserting new windows into the existing casing) or brick-to-brick (stripping out the windows and frames and starting fresh). Retrofitting is less expensive, but brick-to-brick is the more energy-efficient option. And remember, if you’re installing a new window where one didn’t previously exist or enlarging an existing window opening, you have to get a building permit – no exceptions!

Types of windows

Casement
Swinging in and out like a door and operating with a crank, they offer a high level of ventilation and have a tight seal when closed. This is a great choice for hard-to-reach or awkward places because they’re easier to open.

Double-hung
One of the most common types of windows, they consist of two sashes that move up and down. They are great for ventilation and complement any style of home.

Picture
Large and fixed and usually flanked by two casements or double-hung windows, their big, dramatic shape allows for lots of natural light and unobstructed views. They can be pricey because of their size, and keep in mind that they offer no ventilation.

Bay
Made up of one large fixed window in the middle and a casement on either side, they project from an exterior wall and are a staple in many Victorian-Style homes. Take caution when installing – they’re large and heavy, meaning they need adequate structural support.

For further information or questions regarding windows upgrades contact

Anton VanDyk with Centra windows at

www.centrawindows.com

While the Fraser valley Real Estate Market is getting stronger and with the guidence of professional Full Service Realtors, home owners recognize that they can not ask 2006 and 2007 prices anymore. September saw the largest year-over-year increase in property sales this year to date.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,131 sales on its Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in September, an increase of 32% compared to the 857 sales processed during the same month last year and 10% fewer than processed in August.

Ron Todson, President of the Board, explains, “It is good news however, it’s important to put the increase into context. Our home sales in September went from the worst in 10 years to just below our 10-year average.

“It can take a year or more for the market to recover from regulatory changes such as last year’s tightening of mortgage rules introduced by the federal government. Although we are seeing evidence of first-time home buyers returning to the market, we have to keep in mind that it is more challenging now for them to get financing, so although we’re witnessing a recovery to a balanced market it is gradual.”

Todson adds, “An improvement in our sales in the Fraser Valley has not translated to an increase in home prices because inventory levels have either kept pace or depending on the property type and community are elevated.

“Your REALTOR® can provide specifics for your area, for example there is 12 months of condo inventory right now in White Rock/South Surrey, 5 months of inventory for single family homes in North Delta and only 3 and a half months of townhouse inventory in Langley. Real estate is local so to understand your market, talk to an expert.”

In September, the benchmark price of single family detached homes in the Fraser Valley was $552,900, a 0.6% increase compared to $549,500 during the same month last year. For townhouses, the benchmark price was $296,200, a decrease of 1.4% compared to $300,500 in September 2012 and the benchmark price of apartments was $203,100, 1.9% less than in September 2012 when it was $207,000.

The Board received 2,375 new listings in September, a decrease of 7% compared to the 2,544 new listings received during the same month last year – leaving the volume of active properties at 9,875 a decrease of 5% compared to September 2012 and the lowest it’s been since March of this year.