subject: Garage Doors and Selling Your Home [print this page] Garage Doors and Selling Your Home Garage Doors and Selling Your Home
The garage door may not be the first item you think of dressing up when you're putting your house up for sale, but realtors say it's worth giving it some attention.
It's the single largest moving part on a home and if it faces the street, it plays a large part in the overall appearance. Curb appeal is a critical factor in selling a home. If a prospective buyer doesn't like the view from the street, chances are he won't waste time going inside.
When it comes to adding value to a home's list price, the right garage door does make a difference. This doesn't mean that a home had to have a designer garage door, but the door just needs to enhance the overall appearance. Homeowners should choose a modeal that fits the look and price point of their home to get the best return on their investment.
The average price for a new garage door ranges from $700 to $5,000 depending on the size of the door and the material it's made from. The most popular look in garage doors right now is the carriage-house style door. The doors look like old-fashioned swing-out doors but function like modern roll-up doors with an electric garage door opener. The choices for design, color and materials are virtually endless.
Many homeowners favor the high-end look of wood carriage-house style doors, but they don't want the upkeep or the price tag that comes with them. Manufacturers now are introducing less-expensive, low-maintenance versions in steel with layered, wood-grain composite overlays or embossed patterns. Unlike wood, a steel carriage house door is easier to maintain, resisting both fading and rot due to exposure.
If the vintage look doesn't work with the style of your home, no problem. Another solution is to select a classic style raised panel steel or a carved wood panel door and customize it with decorative windows. For more contemporary architecture, consider the sleek-looking aluminum and glass doors now available.
Going Shopping
Budget. Like everything, budget dictates options. Garage doors range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the size, materials and design you choose. Even if you have a small budget you can still get a great looking door that is going to enhance the look of the house.
Design. Think of the garage as an extension of the home's theme, not an afterthought. Let the home's architectural style, the shape and size of the windows and entry doors, and exterior design details influence the design of the garage door.
It's a good idea to visit dealer showrooms and review manufacturer Web sites to get a sense of the options available. Many companies offer doors pre-designed to match specific architectural styles, which can make the selection process easier.
Insulation. Doors can be insulated or non-insulated. If the garage is attached to the house you'll want an insulated door. This will help reduce utility bills - a popular selling point with prospective buyers. If you live in a mild climate or have a detached garage that will only be used to park the car, you can opt for a less expensive, non-insulated door.
Upkeep. Maintenance is another consideration. Steel doors are very durable and virtually maintenance-free, but some people prefer the warmth and character of wood and the limitless design options. Depending on the climate and exposure, wood doors will need to be painted or stained every few years.
