While hardwood floors bring a timeless appeal and sense of warmth, can it increase home value?
Let’s find out.
Hardwood: Why Home Buyers Love It
Hardwood Flooring is Long-Lasting
Wood has been a staple in homes for centuries. This is a testament to its ability to weather the passage of time and foot traffic. When properly maintained with periodic refinishing, hardwood floors can last for a long time, making them popular for homebuyers.
Hardwood Floor is Versatile
One of the most remarkable qualities of hardwood is its ability to blend seamlessly with a wide range of interior design styles—from classic to contemporary and everything in between.
Hardwood flooring can be layered in different colors, textures, and furniture pieces to create a cohesive look. Homebuyers and owners alike find that hardwood floors will complement any design preference. Plus, hardwood floors will not overwhelm any existing furniture and overall interior.
Hardwood is Sustainable
More and more people prefer sustainable materials for their home that improve indoor air quality. Hardwood floors are attractive for homebuyers with children or pets, and they’re also sustainable and healthy for all families.
Unlike carpets that can trap dust, allergens, and pet dander, hardwood floors present a smooth, solid surface and it’s less likely to trap allergens. This surface is much easier to clean, too.
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How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Increase Home Value?
Hardwood floors are considered one of the home improvements that provide a solid return on investment. Installing hardwood flooring is a great way to increase your average ROI.
Hardwood floors can add up to 2.5% to your home’s value. Certain market conditions, such as high demand in upscale neighborhoods, could drive this number higher.
Studies by the National Association of REALTORS®, highlight that 90% of homeowners see installing hardwood floors as an investment. Hardwood floors tend to be a big selling point for potential buyers.
New Installation vs. Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Aspect | New Installation | Refinishing |
---|---|---|
Process | Installing new hardwood floors from scratch. | Sanding down and resealing existing wood floors. |
Cost | More expensive due to material and labor costs. | Less expensive as it uses existing materials. |
Return on Investment (ROI) | 70% to 80% ROI, meaning you can recoup $700 to $800 per $1000 spent. | Up to 147% ROI, making it a cost-effective option. |
Customization | Full control over wood type, stain, and finish. | Limited to the existing floor’s material and condition. |
Impact on Home’s Value | Provides a new feature that adds significant value. | Improves the appearance of existing flooring, enhancing appeal. |
Popularity | Common for homeowners looking for a complete transformation, often with engineered hardwood. | Preferred for homeowners looking for a cost-effective refresh. |
Market Trends: Navigating Buyer Preferences
Buyer preferences vary depending on location and overall market trends. While hardwood floors are highly sought after, recent surveys indicate a growing popularity for luxury vinyl flooring. This includes luxury vinyl planks (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT).
A 2021 flooring trends study reveals that almost one-third of respondents favored these alternatives to traditional wood.
This shift is driven by the following factors:
- Flooring costs can be high so buyers are always looking for ways to save money.
- Advancements in manufacturing technology have led to more realistic and durable vinyl flooring options that effectively mimic the look and feel of hardwood at a lower price point.
Location: Neighborhood Dynamics
In high-end neighborhoods, buyers often prioritize aesthetics.
They are willing to spend more for a premium product and hardwood floors come on top. Homebuyers most likely would invest in premium hardwood types like oak, walnut, or even exotic varieties.
It’s recommended to your research, understand what type of flooring dominates similar listings, and avoid over-improving.
Aligning your renovation choices with the neighborhood standards can help ensure a higher likelihood of attracting buyers. This will also help attract buyers willing to pay a premium.