The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the U.S. housing market. According to the Washington Post in early January, the price for a typical home is up almost 20 percent. And with buyer demand still at an all-time high, especially among first-time home buyers, 2022 may be the perfect time to consider selling your house.

But even if selling is not in your plans for the new year, keeping track of the latest trends among home buyers is a smart move. That way, you know what buyers are looking for so you can make the necessary improvements to ensure your home is sale-ready when the time comes—and the right windows will always be at the top of that list.

Replacing your single-pane windows with double-pane windows or upgrading to an energy efficient window system will go a long way toward increasing your home’s value in 2022 and beyond.

Window replacements are one of the top updates that increase home value.

And in fact, the return on your investment when replacing your outdated windows with new ones is among the highest for all home remodel projects: over 75%, according to Fortune Builders.

Windows are unique in that they are both a functional component of a house and an aesthetic feature. Windows let in natural light, protect against damage from the elements, regulate the indoor temperature to keep inhabitants comfortable, and serve as a sound buffer to reduce noise pollution.

However, windows also allow homeowners to express their creativity and experiment with different styles and designs to match their personal taste.

When replacing your windows, energy efficiency is key.

Smart home buyers will always be looking for ways to save money, both up front and over the course of living in their home. Energy efficient windows are one of the best ways to accomplish that goal. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, choosing ENERGY STAR® certified products can save homeowners more than $500 annually. They are also among the most wanted “green” features that prospective buyers are looking for.

Windows labeled with an ENERGY STAR rating are designed to keep interior temperatures consistent regardless of the current weather, which is especially important here in Arizona. Several elements work together for overall improved window efficiency:

• “Low-e” glass that reflects the sun’s rays back outside
• A low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), indicating that only a small amount of radiant heat comes through the glass
• A low U-factor to show resistance to heat flow
• Double-paned glass with insulating gas such as argon

Energy efficient windows should also have a low rate of air leakage to ensure that heat stays outside while cool air remains in your home. XO Windows is proud to offer the MI EnergyCore™ Window System for superior efficiency and performance. Learn more about the MI EnergyCore difference here.

But windows should also be pleasing to the eye.

Not only are homeowners updating their windows in 2022, but they are also adding windows where none were before—including specialty shape windows. Circles, arches, octagons, and other unexpected shapes create a unique selling point that steps up the aesthetic factor and increases the value of your home.

XO Windows offers a wide variety of specialty windows so you can find that special shape, size, and style that fits your home or project perfectly and adds that custom touch that everyone is looking for.

Find the perfect windows to increase the value of your home.

Whether it’s time to sell or you simply want to spruce up your home’s appeal, XO Windows will help you fall in love with your new windows and increase the value of your home. Contact XO Windows today to ask about our large selection of double- and triple-pane windows, including our highly efficient MI EnergyCore windows. Your free estimate is waiting!