What Kind of Flooring Increases Home Value?
Looking for ways to increase your home value before you sell? Updating your flooring could be a great option if done right. Read this guide to make the best decision for you.
Of all the fundamental features that can affect the home’s value and perception, flooring is often the most overlooked. If you’re planning to sell your home and want to understand which high-value remodeling projects are worth your time, energy, and money, you need to take a hard look at your flooring.
“Besides the basics like your roof and mechanical things, flooring is the next most important factor that influences how buyers feel about your home. It sets the tone and mood for the entire home,” explains Joseph Singsheim, a top real estate agent in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who sells homes 43% quicker than the average agent in his area.
When it comes to flooring, there are many options to choose from. It’s important to consider certain factors carefully to figure out which type of flooring is best for your situation.
Get a Home Value Estimate Before You Replace Flooring
It can be helpful to see what your home is worth before embarking on any renovations. HomeLight’s free tool makes it easy to get a preliminary estimate of value within minutes.
We researched the top flooring reports and spoke to expert real estate agents to create this guide to help you make the most informed decisions about flooring. Here’s exactly what to make of your home’s floors, and what flooring investments are worth the effort.
There’s been quite a big change in the last few years. Twenty years ago carpet was in, and then the hardwoods started coming back. But now we’re trending toward the luxury vinyl tile and laminate type of flooring.
Joseph Singsheim
Real Estate Agent
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Joseph Singsheim
Real Estate Agent at Joseph Singsheim Real Estate5.0
- Years of Experience
15- Transactions
184- Average Price Point
$243k- Single Family Homes
149
Which types of flooring do buyers look for?
It’s no surprise — hardwood flooring has long been the top choice for buyers and agents alike, and remains so in today’s market. The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) Industry Outlook survey shows that about half of wood flooring contractors expect sales to increase in 2025. Interestingly, 66% expect a stronger demand for cleaner, more natural wood colors. White oak, in particular, has been the most popular in the last few years.
According to the National Association of Realtors® report, refinishing hardwood floors yielded 147% cost recovery, and installing new wood floors yielded 118% cost recovery in terms of the increased resale value as compared to the cost of the project.
Hardwoods are a solid flooring choice, with a few styles making it to the top of everyone’s list. But you can still make a great sale on your home even if it isn’t fully decked out in the trendiest materials.
You can choose budget-friendly options, which provide a fantastic aesthetic and durable functionality. According to Singsheim, “There’s been quite a big change in the last few years. Twenty years ago carpet was in, and then the hardwoods started coming back. But now we’re trending toward the luxury vinyl tile and laminate type of flooring.”
