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When selling a home the yard and the interior get all the attention. Rarely included in the "once over department" is the garage. But the home for your cars is just as important to home buyers as the rest of your house. While not every potential buyer will be interested in the state of the garage interior, the entrance to your garage can make the difference in a drive by and a second glance.
In severe weather a reinforced garage door can protect your home against high winds because garage doors are often the entry point for severe damage. Garage doors that are installed and working properly can keep your belongings safe and secure.
Beyond practicality, a stylish garage door will improve up to 1/3 of the exterior of your home so it's an easy way to add curb appeal. And, there are many different styles to choose from like elegant and stylish carriage house designs and contemporary or raised panel doors. Imagine someone looking for a new home and the choice is a standard metal door or a custom wooden garage door. The difference is a striking incentive to stop and look further.
As for the price of your home, an online survey reported that 71% of homeowners who replaced their garage door before selling their home believe their home value increased. Real estate agents who were shown before and after photos of homes that had no changes other than the garage door they increased the estimated list price of the home up to 4%. In other words, an investment of $2,000 in a garage door could potentially increase the value of your home by as much as $7,000 if you were selling a $175,000 home.
One additional item to include as a selling point would be a battery back up that will allow the door to open and close several times during a power outage. If you’ve ever been “stuck” in your garage because of a power outage you know how valuable this feature can be to a potential buyer.
Even if you decide not to replace your garage door, it's important to make sure it is working properly. Like any appliance in your home, your garage door should work when it's time to show the home.
Just remember that a garage door isn’t just a house for your car and all the stuff that doesn’t fit in the home. Give this piece of exterior architecture a little spruce up to give your home selling prospects a lift.
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