We’ve all heard of curb appeal, but have you thought about the fact that the very first step a prospective buyer takes into your property can also make a lasting impression? 

A stained carpet, a peeling laminate, a creaking wood floor, can all prove disconcerting to potential purchasers. In some cases stain removal and a deep clean will do, some laminates can be restored and creaks silenced. But in others, the best option is to replace what’s there, with a choice that’s appropriate to the property and the market.

If you’re looking to sell your home and optimise its appeal and value, the answer may be beneath your feet. With some expert insight from Terry Dainty, Director of Edward Knight estate agents, let us help you make flooring decisions that will help you see return on your investment.

Ground Level

While some Developers might think it’s ok to present a property for sale with a concrete screed beneath your feet, Terry states “It hugely impacts the home’s selling power. Without a floor, buyers struggle to imagine themselves in the property.”

Blank Canvas

Whilst instilling some unique character in your property can be a point of discussion and one that will make your property stand out, as expected, neutral tones are the way forward when trying to sell. Terry confirmed that “sleek neutral colours such as Oak allow for imagination during viewings”.

This enables potential buyers to more easily imagine themselves and their belongings in the space  rather than being distracted by your personal style. As tastes are more subjective, highly patterned flooring is generally best avoided. To appeal to a wider range of buyers it’s better to focus on a flooring that conveys quality and style whilst retaining neutrality for the new owner to put their stamp on the place. 

Appealing To Your Audience

Your target audience has a big impact on what kind of flooring is appropriate. When it comes to luxury properties, flooring matters. Many buyers expect high quality, hard flooring. Terry says:"Generally speaking, those buying higher value homes are likely to be more knowledgeable or specific about their preferences in quality flooring types, and often solid or engineered wooden flooring is preferred."

On the opposite side of the spectrum, Terry supports that “laminate is a great choice for smaller homes - especially for first-time buyers.”  The versatility of laminate makes it an attractive feature when selling your home to younger buyers - especially those with children or pets who need the durability, and often first-time buyers who are usually looking for a low maintenance, but stylish look. 

Material Decisions

To help you make the final decision on what flooring material is best for you we’ve outlined the differences below:

• Hard / solid wood Flooring
  In an array of styles and shades, hardwood flooring is easy to maintain, lower in allergens and has a timeless style. Whilst hardwood flooring represents an investment in your property, it’s one that pays dividends when it’s time to sell.

Customer Photo: @Chestnutinteriordesign | Solid Wood Abbey Spinney 21mm

• • Engineered Wood Flooring
    The benefits of engineered wood flooring lie in its use of less wood, making it inherently more sustainable and cost efficient for the customer, whilst retaining the same style creds as hardwood flooring.

• Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
  Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are trending in contemporary interiors and for good reason. They present a more affordable hardwood alternative, with a wood-like appearance spanning a variety of styles from dark planks to lighter herringbone designs.  Its versatility and durability make it a popular choice for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens and lounges. Its ‘clicking’ mechanism makes DIY easy, enabling further cost savings.

Image: Aqua Plank Herringbone LVT Range

Terry had this to say about LVT:

"In recent years I have seen more and more buyers looking for LVT in their kitchens and living areas, it is certainly on trend"

• Laminate
  An economical choice for smaller homes attracting first-time buyers, laminate provides a stylish, low maintenance option.

Getting in the Mind of Your Buyer

Put simply, adding new floors into your home gives your home a freshen up, which in turn increases the desirability of your home, encouraging a higher sale price. Terry’s final piece of advice? Put yourself in the buyer’s position.

"Rather than focusing on how much exactly the flooring costs, make your home appeal to the potential new buyer rather than just yourself, and you will get your 100% return on investment when it comes to flooring."

Should you need further help, speak to our team of experts today.