How Do Floors Impact Real Estate?
Buyer Preferences & Flooring Choices
In episode 17 of the Design Time: From the Floor Up video podcast, Lindsay Wilson, a seasoned North Carolina home stager, and Lauren Klein, a North Carolina Realtor with Fonville Morisey Realty, engage in a discussion about the impact of mismatched floors on buyers and sellers.
Buyers’ flooring preferences exhibit significant variation. Some are drawn to the warmth and elegance of hardwood floors, appreciating their beauty and ability to enhance property value. Others opt for the practicality and affordability of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), which boasts an extensive range of designs that emulate the appearance of hardwood and provide water resistance.
Lindsay and Lauren emphasize the importance of cultivating a harmonious flooring design throughout a home. As Lindsay asks, “What do you think buyers are looking for when it comes to floors? Like, what kind of a girl are you? Are you a carpet? Are you an LVP? Or are you a hardwood?” Lauren promptly responds, “I am traditional.”
Lindsay states, “I like a hardwood myself. We have redone our entire house, and it’s universally all hardwood.” Their conversation reveals an undeniable allure toward hardwood floors as they delve into the potential these floors hold for a property.
Nevertheless, Lindsay and Lauren also acknowledge the value, practicality, and affordability of LVP. Lindsay confidently shares her recommendation, asserting, “I will recommend LVP because we’re not going back to hardwoods. It’s so expensive to begin with hardwoods. And then, when you change the flooring, it adds so much property value.”
As professionals in home staging and real estate, their shared objective revolves around evading the pitfalls of mismatched floors, which can quickly sour the interest of potential buyers. Lauren recounts a distressing experience with a home listing: “I lost a listing because I said we aren’t going to be able to sell. These people had mismatched floors. You walked in, and it was Brazilian cherry. When they bought the house, there was tile, but they decided they didn’t want tile in the kitchen. So, instead of getting more of the Brazilian cherry, they went with a different type of hardwood. It was all mismatched. It was a disaster. And I said, ‘No, we really can’t. We can’t put the house on the market this way.'”
Just like mismatched socks, homeowners should avoid mismatched floors. Lindsay and Lauren understand the pivotal role a cohesive flooring design plays in fostering a positive impression and augmenting a property’s overall appeal. By prioritizing a flow between rooms through consistent flooring choices, they recognize the impact that mismatched floors can have, severely disrupting the property’s aesthetic harmony. These professionals champion the power of a unified flooring scheme, fully aware of its influence on potential buyers’ perceptions and its ability to elevate the desirability and value of a property.
The Appeal Of Hardwood Floors
Universality and Refinishing of Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors hold a timeless charm that resonates with many buyers. Lindsay and Lauren, in their lively podcast discussion, express their affinity for hardwoods and the universal appeal they possess. One of the remarkable qualities of hardwood floors lies in their refurbishing ability, allowing homeowners to revitalize their appearance over time.
Lindsay highlights this advantage, noting, “We have hardwoods throughout. It’s the original hardwood from 1942 that we’ve had refinished. And where we added on, we had them match. You can just get the same stain, and then it looks like it’s all always been there.”
The ability to refinish hardwood floors not only restores their original luster but also offers the opportunity to adapt the floor’s color and finish to suit evolving design trends and personal preferences. This versatility and longevity contribute to the enduring appeal of hardwood floors in the eyes of buyers.
Softness Underfoot and the Use of Rugs
While the allure of hardwood floors is often associated with their natural beauty and elegance, it’s essential to address the concern of comfort underfoot. Lauren chimes in during the podcast, sharing her personal preference, “I have carpet in my bedroom. There’s no hardwood.” This sentiment acknowledges the desire for softness and coziness in certain areas of the home, such as bedrooms, where comfort takes precedence.
However, the presence of hardwood floors doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort altogether. One effective way to enhance comfort is by strategically incorporating area rugs. Rugs add a layer of softness and warmth and serve as design elements, introducing patterns, colors, and textures that complement the hardwood floors. By striking a balance between hardwood’s sleekness and rugs’ plushness, homeowners can create inviting spaces catering to visual aesthetics and tactile comfort.
In the quest for flooring choices, hardwood floors’ universal appeal and refinishing potential stand out prominently. With their ability to adapt to changing design trends and rejuvenate the look of a space, hardwood floors continue to captivate buyers. And while the softness underfoot is a consideration, the use of rugs allows home stagers and homeowners to strike the perfect balance between comfort and showcasing the natural beauty of hardwood floors. Together, these qualities make hardwood floors an enduring choice that adds sophistication, value, and versatility to any home.
Exploring Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
What Are The Benefits Of LVP?
Today’s homeowners prioritize flooring options that meet their modern lifestyle demands while staying within budget. LVP fulfills these criteria by offering various benefits. Its affordability allows homeowners to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank. The versatility of LVP is another standout feature, providing various design options to suit different styles and existing decor. Additionally, LVP’s durability and low maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for busy households. With its increasing demand and numerous advantages, LVP has become a sought-after flooring option that combines style, affordability, and durability.
Luxury Vinyl Plank has come a long way in aesthetics and durability. Gone are the days of basic designs that failed to truly mimic the look of natural hardwood. Lindsay Wilson, expert North Carolina home stager, expresses her admiration for LVP: “I like the grain in it. And I like how much they have made it look like hardwoods.” This sentiment reflects the remarkable progress made in replicating the beauty and texture of hardwood flooring.
LVP has evolved to withstand the tests of time and daily wear. Technological advancements have enhanced its durability, making it resistant to scratches, scuffs, and stains. This durability ensures that LVP can maintain its pristine appearance even in high-traffic areas, making it an ideal choice for busy, pet-friendly households or commercial spaces.
How Does LVP Compare To Other Floors?
When considering flooring options, it’s essential to compare the attributes of different materials. LVP stands out in several ways. Firstly, it offers a cost-effective alternative to hardwood floors, providing the look and feel of wood without the associated maintenance and expense. As Lindsay aptly points out, “I will recommend LVP because we’re not going back to hardwoods. It’s so expensive to begin with hardwoods.”
LVP also surpasses certain flooring options when it comes to sound quality. Lindsay highlights the benefit of LVP’s sound characteristics, saying, “I think what I enjoy about LVP is that it’s not the clickety-clack of laminate, which is terrible. It’s a cheap, horrible sound.” With LVP, homeowners can enjoy a quieter living environment, free from distracting noises often accompanying other flooring materials.
Homeowners can discover a flooring solution that combines affordability, durability, and aesthetics by exploring luxury vinyl plank. Lindsay’s endorsement and advancements in LVP’s aesthetics and durability solidify its position as a top choice for discerning homeowners. Furthermore, LVP’s cost-effectiveness and superior sound quality make it a standout contender in flooring options.
At Floorily, we pride ourselves on offering luxurious, high-quality LVP options that exceed expectations. With our commitment to innovation and design, we provide homeowners with the perfect flooring solution that effortlessly combines style, functionality, and value. To experience the allure of luxury vinyl plank and elevate your space, find an authorized dealer near you today.
The Impact Of Mismatched Floors On Buyers
During the engaging discussion on the Design Time podcast, Lauren and Lindsay shed light on the impact of mismatched floors on buyers. They share examples of homes where mismatched flooring choices create visual disarray. From combining different types of hardwood to mixing hardwood with tile, carpet, and other hardwood, these examples demonstrate the need for more cohesion which can be off-putting to potential buyers.
Negative Perception And Distractions
Mismatched floors disrupt the flow and aesthetic of a home and create a negative perception among buyers. Lauren recounts a listing she encountered, where mismatched floors caused distractions and left buyers questioning the property’s overall condition. Mismatched floors draw attention away from other desirable features, making it difficult for buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
Bottom Line Impact
The consequences of mismatched floors can be severe, as buyers may demand flooring replacements or negotiate a lower price to accommodate the cost of fixing the issue. This prolongs the time a property spends on the market and leads to price reductions, impacting the seller’s bottom line. Lindsay emphasizes this: “They’re already spending the seller’s money instead of putting in a higher offer if it were already finished and done for them.”
Case Study: The Consequences Of Mismatched Floors
Lauren shares a case study highlighting the consequences of mismatched floors. In this particular listing, mismatched flooring choices resulted in extended time on the market and difficulties in attracting potential buyers. The lack of a cohesive flooring design was a significant obstacle to selling the property.
The mismatched floors contributed to an extended listing period. They forced the seller to make substantial price reductions to attract buyers. Despite other desirable features, the mismatched floors became the focus of attention and deterred potential buyers from making offers. The financial impact of prolonged time on the market and price reductions was significant for the seller.
Lauren’s case study underscores the critical role of a cohesive flooring design in attracting buyers. By addressing the mismatched floors and creating a harmonious flow throughout the home, sellers can make a positive impression and enhance the property’s overall appeal. Understanding the impact of mismatched floors on buyers and learning from real-life case studies emphasizes the importance of a cohesive flooring design in selling a home.
Financial Considerations & Value Added
When it comes to flooring choices, homeowners need to consider the cost implications of replacing or upgrading their floors. Traditional hardwood floors can be a significant investment, requiring upfront expenses for materials, installation, and potential refinishing over time. On the other hand, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) offers a more cost-effective alternative without compromising aesthetics and durability. LVP eliminates the need for expensive hardwood materials and extensive installation costs, making it a budget-friendly option for homeowners looking to enhance the appeal of their spaces.
What Value Does Upgraded Flooring Add?
What Is The ROI On Redoing Floors?
One of the key factors that homeowners should consider is the potential return on investment (ROI) when upgrading their floors. While hardwood floors are known for their ability to increase a property’s value, they can also yield a high ROI when compared to the initial investment. The timeless appeal of hardwood floors makes them a wise investment, as they can attract more buyers and potentially command a higher sale price. On the other hand, luxury vinyl planks offer a more affordable initial investment with a favorable ROI. LVP’s durability and low maintenance requirements can translate into long-term cost savings and increased property value.
Understanding the financial considerations and value added by upgraded flooring choices allows homeowners to make informed decisions that align with their budget and long-term goals. Whether opting for the elegance of hardwood or the affordability and versatility of luxury vinyl plank, choosing the right flooring can enhance a property’s overall appeal and provide a positive return on investment.
The Takeaway
Flooring plays a significant role in selling a house, as it greatly impacts a property’s overall impression and appeal. In this blog, we explored the insightful discussion between Lindsay Wilson, an expert home stager, and Lauren Klein, a seasoned Realtor, regarding the importance of flooring choices for buyers and sellers. By summarizing key points from their Design Time: From the Floor Up episode, we have gained valuable insights into the world of flooring preferences and the impact they have on the real estate market.
We learned that buyers have diverse preferences regarding flooring, with some gravitating towards the warmth and sophistication of hardwood floors, appreciating their long-lasting beauty and value-added appeal. Others opt for the convenience, affordability, durability, and versatility of luxury vinyl plank, which offers a wide range of designs that mimic the look of hardwood. Creating a cohesive flooring design throughout a home emerged as a vital aspect emphasized by both Lindsay and Lauren. Mismatched floors can be visually jarring and create a sense of disarray, which can deter potential buyers and lead to extended time on the market.
We encourage homeowners to prioritize flooring coherence when preparing their homes for sale. A harmonious flow between rooms, achieved through consistent flooring choices, enhances the overall aesthetic appeal and creates a positive impression for buyers. While hardwood floors have long been considered a symbol of luxury and elegance, we also highlighted the growing appeal of luxury vinyl plank. LVP provides a cost-effective and versatile alternative to hardwood, replicating its beauty while offering durability and affordability.
At Floorily, we understand the importance of flooring in transforming a space and attracting buyers. Our wide range of luxury vinyl plank options combines the sophistication of hardwood with the practicality and value of LVP. By choosing LVP, homeowners can enhance the appeal of their homes and make a smart investment in flooring that aligns with their budget and design preferences.
When it comes to selling your house, remember that flooring matters. Prioritize a cohesive flooring design, consider the benefits of luxury vinyl plank, and let Floorily be your trusted partner in creating beautiful and functional spaces that captivate potential buyers.
