Hi, I need some advice on which windows to order and would really appreciate your help!

We just bought this foreclosure and it needs a lot of the windows replaced. The windows in the family room (the room with fireplace and fan) and the dining room (the one with the stairs) are very low to the ground. I love the look of these, but the window company told us that we would have to get tempered glass if we want to keep them that low. Or we can raise them up another 6 inches or so and they can be regular glass. Tempered glass is quite a bit more so we are trying to decide on what to do here... Do you think it would make a ton of difference if they were a little shorter?