Flooring is part of what increases or decreases properties’ value.
But as with other changes, return on investment is the key point to consider.
In other words, when is it worth replacing your flooring before selling? And why?
Read on to find out.
The importance of flooring when selling a house
Flooring is an essential part of a home’s interior.
Its quality (of lack thereof) can make or break a viewer’s decision to make an offer. And the amount they offer.
But different viewers may have different concerns about flooring.
For example, some won’t mind replacing carpet. They may have planned on doing this anyway, even if your current carpet is high quality.
Others might be concerned about acoustics (especially if you are selling a flat). Wooden flooring tends to echo, while carpet is more soundproof.
Should you replace the flooring before selling?
It depends on your potential buyers.
If many viewers complain about the current flooring, you may want to replace it. Or you could drop your price accordingly. After all, selling a home in bad condition is still possible.
If the floor is slightly ‘eccentric’, and you are struggling to find buyers, you can also consider changing it.
However, lowering your asking price by the amount you would spend on replacing the floor is also an option – one that will save time and effort.
Your time frame for selling also matters.
After all, replacing flooring takes time. But equally, if it’s a sticking point for most viewers, getting it replaced could speed up your sale.
Signs that your flooring needs replacing
Visible scratches and marks
You may need to get on your hands and knees to spot this.
Scratches will build up over time, creating aesthetic and functional problems if untreated.
Bad smell
This is far more common with carpet. A bad odour may come with flooring that hasn’t been cleaned regularly.
Especially if an animal has been in the room in the past.
Just make sure to confirm that this is where the bad smell is coming from. You don’t want to blame the wrong part of the room!
Faded colouring
Check photos of what your flooring first looked like when it was installed. How much has the colour changed?
Over time, you may slowly adjust to it. But you’ll be amazed at how much of an improvement fresh flooring, with bright colours, can make.
Gaps between floor planks
This can become a safety issue if you’re on a higher floor. Make sure to look carefully for these.
You’ll be especially liable if you don’t alert your buyer to it before selling. Ideally, you’ll replace the flooring in this situation.
Common types of flooring (& costs)
Replacing flooring is usually charged by the square metre.
Installation costs also vary according to your location, number of rooms, and provider.
1. Carpet
Carpet can make a room feel warmer and reduces noise. Many homeowners find it the most comfortable type of flooring.
Carpet costs start at around £20 per square metre at the lower end. However, they can go up to £150 for higher-end carpets.
2. Hardwood
Hardwood flooring is popular because of its durability. Many people use rugs to soften sound and add comfort to rooms with it.
It’s one of the most expensive replacements, but one of the longest-lasting. Around £60 per square metre is typical.
3. Tile
Tile flooring, along with marble, is often seen as a luxury option. It’s relatively expensive to buy and get fitted.
There are many different types of tiles to consider, including:
- Ceramic tiles: £15 to £50+ per square metre
- Porcelain tiles: £25 to £70+ per square metre
- Natural stone tiles (Marble, Granite, Slate, Travertine): £40 to £150+ per square metre.
And more.
4. Laminate
And laminate flooring is a more cost-effective alternative to hardwood, which it often looks very similar to.
It’s charged at around £40 per square metre.
How long does it take to replace flooring?
For each room, replacing flooring usually takes two or three days.
This depends on the size of the room, the type of flooring you’re replacing, and what you’re replacing it with.
Replacing flooring in an entire house usually takes between one and two weeks. It depends on how many rooms there are.
Most experts recommend that you get support from a tradesperson for this job.
While it may sound easy, even small mistakes can be very noticeable.
And buyers will offer several thousand dollars less on your house as a result.
It isn’t worth cutting corners (literally, in this case…)
Can a buyer request that I replace the flooring before selling?
Yes, a buyer can ask for this, but you aren’t required to say yes. You can refuse if you want to.
It’s the same situation as selling with or without furniture.
It’s then up to your buyer whether to proceed or pull out. You may (as a seller) choose to engage other buyers at this point.
Whatever agreement you reach, make sure to put it in writing.
