I need to replace 6 double hung and two awning windows on the front of
a 1917 brick rowhouse. The current windows are wood single pane -- I
don't know if they are original, but they are pretty old and drafty. I
am looking to have this done for me since I don't have the time or the
expertise to do it myself.

I was going to just do vinyl replacement windows -- The best quote that
I have gotten is abour $2,900 with a lifetime warrenty from a reputable
company (according to a local consumer magazine). However, I have been
looking around these groups and seen some concerns about reduced glass
area and cheap appearance (that might effect resale value).

How much more expensive might new windows be? Are they really
significantly better looking and brighter? Will it really effect my
resale value (I am in a neighborhood of Washington DC that is about to
gentrify). Are there any special concerns with putting new windows on
a brick house?

Thanks in advance.

Andrew