Monday, August 10, 2026

Flooring Upgrades That Deliver the Best Return on Investment

If you're planning to invest the time and money into upgrading your floors, it's worth researching which options provide the best return. After all, there's a reason so many homebuyers swoon over real hardwood. Even if you're not planning to sell, you'll want a material that's durable and impresses guests. Let's compare some of the most popular options so you can choose a style that fits your budget and aesthetic while offering long-term value.

Carpet
Average Cost:
$0.75 to $12 per square foot

Carpet can last between 15 and 18 years if it's well maintained. However, it's prone to stains and snags, especially in homes with pets or small children. While many buyers prefer carpet in bedrooms, it's often less desirable in other areas and usually doesn't provide a strong resale boost.

Tile
Average Cost:
$4.00 to $10.00 per square foot

Tile flooring is extremely durable and can last up to 30 years if cared for properly. It's a popular choice in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and high-traffic areas. For the best return on your investment, opt for neutral colors to give each space a timeless look.

Luxury Vinyl Plank
Average Cost: $2.00 to $7.00 per square foot

Luxury vinyl plank can last 20 years or more, making it a strong option for mid-priced homes. It also comes in a wide range of styles that mimic hardwood at a more affordable price point. Buyers often appreciate the look of luxury vinyl plank and how easy it is to maintain, which can boost resale value.

Hardwood 
Average Cost: $2.00 to $14.00 per square foot

It's no surprise that hardwood flooring is still the most desirable flooring choice. With a lifespan of 30 years or more, it's a durable option that can even be refinished when it starts to show signs of wear. Overall, hardwood floors provide the best resale value. 

To estimate your flooring budget, measure each room you plan to upgrade. Then add about 10% to the square footage you calculate to give yourself a buffer. Finally, multiply this number by the low-end and high-end cost of your desired material and divide by two to get the average. If you're planning to hire a flooring contractor, request multiple quotes and compare them against your estimate to get the best deal on your next remodeling project. You'll be happy you spent a little time researching and calculating costs upfront once your new flooring is installed. 

Sources: usatoday/moneyhomes

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying or refinancing needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help or if you already own and need to discuss options for those property upgrades or remodel projects, we can help you there too.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!










Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org