By Shelley Sakala
In this month’s real estate column, local realtor Shelley Sakala answers a reader’s timely question. North Phoenix resident Maddie asks, “Does changing your flooring increase your home’s value?”
The Expert Answer
The short answer is: Yes. New flooring certainly can increase the value of your home.
Outdated or worn-out flooring may be fine for buyers seeking a fixer-upper or a house they can flip. But for the average home buyer, flooring that’s past its prime equates to money out of pocket. A reasonable home buyer expects a house will require a little paint and polish after moving in. But the time, effort, and expense of installing new flooring may prove to be too much for some buyers. And just like that, your home gets crossed off the list.
Looking at things from a different perspective, upgraded flooring is noticed by homebuyers and often valued by appraisers. It becomes a selling point as your home goes from fixer-upper to move-in ready. Fresh, on-trend flooring is the first thing a buyer sees upon entering, and it makes the home more desirable and perhaps even more valuable. In fact, we’ve seen new flooring deliver a lift of 10-20% in home value, depending on the materials used. In a red-hot real estate market this might not be a factor. But market conditions can and will change. Guaranteed.
Even if you have no immediate plans to sell your home, a flooring update can bring you enjoyment now and value later. With that in mind you may want to consider a flooring product that brings you joy. Maybe it’s the feel of plush carpet between your toes or bare feet on cool ceramic tile. When you’re shopping for yourself, the emotional return on investment is instantaneous. Even if you end up selling your home in a couple of years, you’ll be able to enjoy your upgrade for however long you live there.
Do you have a question for next month’s issue of “North Phoenix News”? E-mail Shelley at [email protected].
Shelley Sakala is a local realtor and owner of The Sakala Group Real Estate. Learn more at shelleysakala.com.
