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How long can my home's roof last?

Do I need to replace a 20 year old roof before I sell? No leaks
Asked By Han F | Albertville, AL | 326 views | Remodeling | 11 months ago
Answer(8)
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Chris Yochum

Dickson Realty

(19)

It can be a good idea to have a roof inspection or assessment. Some companies do this at no charge. If you get 3 contractors out there to assess and give you an evaluation of the roof condition and life remaining then you can disclose appropriately. If buyers have any concern then you can show what the contractors had said. If they recommend replacing then at least you will know what the professional say and can find the best quote. Having a new roof can certainly make the home more appealing and attract more buyer interest.
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Semi-Pro
83 Answers
Marty & Abby Champagne

RE/MAX Market Place

(33)

No need to replace. However it may come up on an inspection report. (if it is at the end of its life). But I would jump that hurdle when the time comes before replacing it.
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Rising Star
26 Answers
Joanne Patience

Iron Valley Real Estate North Florida

(5)

No need to replace a 20-year-old roof that has no evidence of leaks. It may be advantageous to have a roof certification done and have it ready for a buyer that is questioning the life span of the roof. Just make sure you disclose the age.
Agni Mitra

Keller Williams Arizona Realty

Hi, You do not need to replace your roof before you sell. As long as you disclose that there were no leaks you should be fine. However, be prepared to have your agent negotiate any repairs which might come up during the inspection period. For a 20 year old roof there might be some minor maintenance issues which might come up. If you want to know beforehand for your peace of mind you could have a roof inspection done by a trusted roofer (ask your real estate agent for some recommendation). That way you know what to expect and have an idea. However, if you do that and an issue is mentioned in the roofing report (however minor it may be) you would need to disclose it to the buyers. In most cases, I would advise you to let the inspection process take its course. If you want to dispute an inspection report you could get a second opinion prior to your response. A great real estate agent should advice you through this process. If you need recommendation of a great agent in your area you can search on this website: https://www.fastexpert.com/rsp/agni-mitra-78257/
Tyler Fitz

Anderson Realty

(19)

The biggest question is whether or not it is insurable. Many insurance companies have guidelines for what condition and age a roof needs to be in order for them to write a policy. In most cases there is almost always at least one or two options. The less maintenance or updating a home needs tends to be favorable for a buyer but that question is better suited for a listing agent in your area and an insurance broker.
Patricia Billings Malone

C21 Masters Malone Homes Group

(45)

I recommend asking a roofer not a Realtor. We are not experts in that field.
Rayna Mack

SDHOMES

(51)

Hi Han, No you do not need to replace your roof. As long as you disclose the roof age and that you have had no leaks you should be fine. A buyer can decide if they want to ask you for a "small credit" towards a new roof they can use after close of escrow. When the Rayna Mack Team works with buyers and a roof is older, sometimes we negotiate that into our request for repairs.
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Novice
1 Answer
Maggie James

Coldwell Banker Realty

(30)

Depending on the type of roofing materials and the workmanship. In most circumstances a 20 year old roof could have many additional serviceable years. Maybe there are some other key items in the home that may warrant an upgrade.

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