Fix It or Replace It?

Question: Allison, our condo is currently on the market and the dishwasher recently broke.  We are wondering if we should repair it or replace it- which makes more sense?

 Answer: The answer is – it depends! The May 2009 issue of Consumer Reports offers consumers a timeline to determine when it’s time to say goodbye to old appliances that aren’t operating properly. The magazine took into account age, typical repair and replacement costs, and improvements that have been made in newer models.

The following list shows the age when it’s more sensible to replace an appliance rather than fix it:

• 6 years: dishwashers, over-the-range microwaves, and top-freezer refrigerators

• 7 years: clothes dryers and top-loader washers

• 8 years: Bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators, electric or gas ranges, electric wall ovens, and front-loader washers

The most important thing to remember is that Buyers expect the appliances to be in good working order and will probably ask for them to be repaired or replaced when they do their inspection if there are problems.

Source: Consumer Reports-REAL ESTATE FORUM

For answers to your real estate questions, call Allison at 970-468-6800. Email - [email protected]. Allison is a long time local in Summit County. Summit Real Estate – The Simson/Nenninger Team is located at the Dillon Ridge Marketplace. Allison’s long-time residency and years of real estate experience can help you make the most of any buying or selling situation. She’s a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), the highest designation awarded to a Realtor in the residential sales field.  Her philosophy is simple, whether buying or selling, she understands that the most important real estate transaction is yours.  Want to know the value of your Summit County property? Visit www.SummitHomeValue.com