Does New Flooring Increase Home Value? Learn Which Adds the Most Value

When it comes to upgrading your home, few improvements make as immediate an impact as new floors. But beyond aesthetics, many homeowners ask the same question: Does new flooring increase home value?

The short answer is yes, but the type of flooring, quality of installation, and overall design all play a role in how much value you can expect to gain. At Baker Bros, we’ve helped countless homeowners transform their living spaces while making smart, value-driven decisions.

Let’s break down how installing new flooring can boost your property’s appeal, and which options deliver the best return on investment.

Key Takeaways

• New flooring can significantly increase your home value and buyer appeal
• Hardwood floors typically deliver the highest return on investment
• Luxury vinyl and laminate flooring offer budget-friendly alternatives with strong value
• Consistency across living spaces helps improve flow and perceived size
• Choosing the right type of flooring for your market is key to maximizing ROI
• Quality installation is just as important as the flooring material itself 

Why Flooring Matters for Home Value

Flooring is one of the first things buyers notice when they walk into a home. Worn-out carpets, outdated tiles, or scratched surfaces can immediately lower perceived value.

On the other hand, modern, cohesive flooring can:

• Make living rooms feel larger and brighter
• Improve flow across living spaces
• Signal that the home is well-maintained
• Increase buyer confidence

This is why flooring upgrades consistently rank among the top renovations for improving resale value.

Does New Flooring Increase Home Value?

Yes, installing new flooring can increase your home value, often delivering a strong return on investment (ROI). Depending on the material and market, homeowners can recoup anywhere from 70% to over 100% of the cost.

However, not all flooring options are created equal. The value comes from choosing the right flooring material for your home, lifestyle, and budget.

Best Flooring Options for Increasing Value

1. Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors remain one of the most desirable upgrades for buyers. They offer:

• Timeless appeal
• Durability
• High resale value

Many buyers actively seek homes with hardwood flooring, especially in the main living areas. If your goal is maximum ROI, this is often the gold standard.

Best for: Living rooms, dining areas, and open-plan living spaces.

2. Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Luxury vinyl plank (often called LVP or LVT) has become incredibly popular, and for good reason.

It offers:

• A high-end look at a more budget-friendly price
• Water resistance
• Easy maintenance

Luxury vinyl flooring beautifully mimics wood or stone, making it a practical choice for modern homes.

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.

3. Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is another cost-effective option that delivers solid value.

Benefits include:

• Affordable pricing
• Scratch resistance
• Wide variety of styles

While it doesn’t carry the same prestige as hardwood floors, it can still significantly improve the look of your home.

Best for: Bedrooms and secondary living spaces.

4. Vinyl Flooring (Standard)

Traditional vinyl flooring has come a long way in terms of design and durability.

It’s:

• Highly budget-friendly
• Moisture-resistant
• Easy to install

For homeowners looking to upgrade without a large investment, vinyl flooring can still contribute to a noticeable increase in perceived value.

Choosing the Right Type of Flooring

To truly increase your home value, you need to match the type of flooring to your home and target buyer.

Consider:

• Location: High-end neighborhoods often expect hardwood floors
• Functionality: Water-resistant options for kitchens and bathrooms
• Consistency: Using the same flooring across living spaces improves flow
• Durability: Buyers value long-lasting materials

At Baker Bros, we always recommend balancing style, practicality, and budget to achieve the best results.

Budget-Friendly Upgrades That Still Add Value

Not every homeowner wants or needs to invest in premium hardwood.

If you're working within a budget, consider:

• Upgrading old carpet to laminate flooring
• Installing luxury vinyl in high-traffic areas
• Refinishing existing hardwood floors instead of replacing them

These options can still significantly increase your home’s appeal without overspending.

How Much Value Can New Flooring Add?

While exact numbers vary, here’s a general idea of potential return on investment:

• Hardwood floors: 80–100% return on investment
• Luxury vinyl: 70–90% ROI
• Laminate flooring: 60–80% ROI
• Vinyl flooring: 50–70% ROI

The key is choosing a flooring material that aligns with your home’s price range and buyer expectations.

Tips to Maximize Your Flooring Investment

To get the most value from installing new flooring:

1. Keep it consistent: Avoid mixing too many styles
2. Choose neutral tones: Appeal to a wider audience
3. Focus on main areas first: Living rooms and entryways matter most
4. Invest in quality installation: Poor workmanship can reduce value

Even the best flooring options won’t deliver results if they’re poorly installed.

FAQs

Does new flooring increase home value enough to justify the cost?

In most cases, yes. Installing new flooring can provide a strong return on investment, especially when upgrading outdated or damaged floors. The key is selecting the right flooring options for your home and budget.

What type of flooring adds the most value?

Hardwood floors typically add the most value due to their durability, timeless style, and strong buyer demand. However, luxury vinyl flooring is a close second for homeowners seeking a more budget-friendly option.

Is laminate flooring a good investment?

Yes, laminate flooring can still increase your home value—especially if you’re replacing worn-out carpet or outdated materials. It’s an affordable way to improve the look of your living spaces.

Does vinyl flooring increase home value?

Vinyl flooring can increase your home value, particularly in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. While it may not add as much value as hardwood floors, it’s a practical and cost-effective upgrade.

Should I replace all the flooring before selling my home?

Not always. Focus on high-impact areas like living rooms and entryways first. If your current flooring is in good condition, targeted updates may be enough to increase your home’s appeal.

Final Thoughts

So, does new flooring increase home value? Absolutely, but the impact depends on your choices.

From timeless hardwood floors to budget-friendly laminate flooring and modern luxury vinyl, the right upgrade can transform your home while boosting its market appeal.

If you’re planning to increase your home value, start from the ground up. Thoughtful flooring decisions not only elevate your living spaces today but also position your home for a stronger sale tomorrow. Visit a Baker Bros showroom to chat with our experts about your flooring options.

And when you’re ready to explore the best flooring options for your space, working with experts like Baker Bros ensures you get both style and long-term value.