A home’s windows are one of the most important things buyers look at when determining how much they’re willing to pay for a property. Along with offering plenty of curb appeal, a set of beautiful and strong windows also ensures that they won’t need to be replaced for a while. After all, window renovations can be expensive, and the last thing a new homeowner wants is to take on that extra cost. Fortunately, as the seller, this can be done without even needing to take that cost on yourself. These are some affordable ways to upgrade your windows and raise home value while you’re at it.

Repaint Window Sills and Frames

Over time, the sills and frames surrounding our windows can take just as much of a beating as the window panes themselves. Sun, rain, and snow can all wear away at these surfaces and cause the paint to chip and peel. This leaves them looking very run-down and damaged—even when they’re not. For this reason, if there’s nothing else that needs to be fixed, giving it a new coat of paint can be just what it needs.

Apply a New Layer of Caulk To Stop Leaks

Dispensing a fresh layer of caulk over any window leaks is another affordable way to upgrade your windows. As the seasons change, the home is prone to shifting as it expands and contracts. This can dislodge the windows slightly from their previous position and create drafts. While many homeowners consider this as grounds for getting their windows replaced, caulk can fix them and even make them more energy-efficient without the hassle.

Install a Set of Exterior Shutters

You can also make your windows more effective, as well as visually appealing, by installing a new set of exterior shutters. Wood board and batten shutters, in particular, are highly sought after for their classic look and the extra strength and durability they add to a home. Shutters are also good for increasing the control the homeowners have over their lighting, airflow, and even privacy.

Get Storm-Resistant Frames

You may want to purchase storm-resistant frames as well if your old ones do, ultimately, need to be replaced. These products are constructed from high-grade wood, aluminum, or vinyl and sit flush against the window panes to block out dirt and moisture. They’re fairly easy to pop into place once the old frame is removed, but you may need to install it in pieces depending on the type of windows you have.