Choosing the right flooring can significantly increase your home’s resale value. Realtors and design experts reveal the top five flooring styles that enhance aesthetics, durability, and buyer appeal, ensuring a higher return on investment and faster sales.
Flooring is one of the most critical elements in home design, playing a pivotal role in both aesthetics and functionality. As Thomas O’Shaughnessy, vice president at Clever Offers, explains, flooring makes or breaks a home in terms of its desirability and resale value. It also significantly influences how long a property stays on the market. Consistency is key—buyers prefer cohesive flooring throughout the home, as it enhances the overall appeal and helps them envision their future in the space. Neutral tones, durable finishes, and thoughtful upgrades are essential for maximizing home value.
To help you make informed decisions, we consulted real estate agents and design experts to identify the flooring styles that stand out and sell homes more effectively in 2026.
Meet Our Experts
- Thomas O’Shaughnessy, vice president at Clever Offers
- Matt Brown, a broker associate at William Raveis
- Ashley Biscan, interior design and trend expert at Floor & Decor
Light Oak Solid Hardwood
Hardwood flooring remains the gold standard for resale value. Ashley Biscan, interior design and trend expert at Floor & Decor, highlights its timeless appeal and sustainability, noting that it can be refinished over time for a fresh look. Matt Brown of William Raveis adds that light oak tones are particularly popular in 2026, as they create a bright, airy feel and make rooms appear larger.
Why it adds value: Solid hardwood installations can yield an impressive 106 to 118 percent return on investment, according to Brown. Refinishing existing hardwood floors can recover as much as 147 percent of its cost. Additionally, homes with hardwood in main living areas tend to spend 15 to 20 percent fewer days on the market, as noted by O’Shaughnessy.
Wide-Plank Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood is gaining popularity, especially in humid climates or homes with concrete slabs. Biscan emphasizes that engineered hardwood, crafted with real wood and an innovative base, is a compelling solution for active households. Brown adds that wider planks create a seamless, contemporary look that buyers associate with luxury.
Why it adds value: Engineered wood typically offers a 75 to 95 percent ROI, according to Brown, and is often regarded equivalently to solid hardwood by buyers and appraisers.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has evolved significantly, offering the look of wood or stone at a lower cost and with better moisture resistance. O’Shaughnessy notes that LVP is particularly appealing for families and pet owners due to its 100 percent waterproof and scratch-resistant properties.
Why it adds value: Brown estimates that LVP can provide a 50 to 70 percent ROI or more, especially in mid-tier homes. It also tends to attract more first-time buyers than homes with dated carpet.
Large-Format Porcelain Tile
In kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, large-format porcelain tile signals durability and modern design. Brown explains that larger tiles reduce visual clutter and make spaces look sleeker. Biscan adds that natural stone is a premium choice for coastal areas.
Why it adds value: O’Shaughnessy notes that well-designed tile floors in warm climates can help sellers achieve 2 to 3 percent higher sale prices compared to comparable homes. Porcelain tile also offers long-term durability, reassuring buyers of its quality.
Heated Floors
Radiant floor heating, particularly in bathrooms and primary suites, adds an unexpected layer of comfort that buyers remember during showings. While ROI varies by region, O’Shaughnessy highlights that comfort-driven upgrades can significantly influence buyer perception, especially in colder climates.
Why it adds value: Comfort upgrades like heated floors can make a home stand out in competitive markets, appealing to buyers looking for luxury features.
For the latest trends and expert advice on home improvement, continue exploring onlytrustedinfo.com. Our comprehensive guides and insights help you make informed decisions to enhance your home’s value and appeal.
