Try to quantify the SEO value of the site with free tools like semrush and ahrefs, also factor in some for how much you'd pay to have the website built as is.

Past pageviews don't really count for anything. What the last month's pageview count is is a lot more relevant.

To answer your question more directly, the answer is sometimes yes sometimes no. Sounds lke you might have a yes situation.

Feel free to reach out if you need any more tips!