09/22/2026
"Should I put a new roof on before I sell?" Sellers ask me this all the time.
My answer is usually: It depends…
If your roof is still in good shape, replacing it just because you’re getting ready to sell may not be worth the cost. A new asphalt shingle roof typically gets back around 70 cents for every $1 spent when the home is sold. So if you spend $20,000 on a new roof, you may only get about $14,000 back in the sale price.
That doesn’t mean an old roof is something you can ignore, either. When buyers see an older or damaged roof, they may worry about the cost of replacing it. And sometimes, they will ask for more than the actual repair may cost because they want room for the unexpected.
There are also a couple of things sellers should know:
→ Insurance can be an issue. Some insurance companies look closely at the age and condition of the roof before offering coverage to the new owner.
→ The buyer’s loan can matter, too. With FHA or VA financing, the appraiser may flag roof problems if the roof has leaks or appears to be near the end of its useful life. That can lead to repairs being required before closing.
So what should you do?
🔹 If the roof is in good shape: You may be better off leaving it alone. Put your money into things buyers notice right away, like paint, landscaping, or small repairs.
🔹 If there are a few missing shingles or a small leak: Fix the problem and keep the receipt. A documented repair can give buyers more confidence without the cost of a full replacement.
🔹 If the roof is old or has major damage: Before you list, get an inspection and a written estimate. Then, we can compare three choices: replace it now, adjust the listing price, or offer a closing credit to the buyer.
There is no one answer for every house. The right choice depends on the condition of the roof, the home, and the market you're selling in.
If you're thinking about selling, message me. Tell me roughly how old your roof is and what area you're in. We can talk about what makes sense before you spend money on a new roof.
Nghiep Nguyen | SCREC #114972
Realtor • South Carolina
803-767-8584