The Best Flooring Upgrades to Increase Property Value Before Selling
When you’re preparing a home for sale, flooring is one of the highest-impact improvements you can make — it changes first impressions, photographs well for listings, and sets the tone for the entire property. But what practical steps can you take to maximise your return on investment? AMS Flooring is here to help answer any questions you may have about how flooring installations can boost your sale price.
So, which flooring upgrades actually add value and how?
Engineered timber or hardwood look finishes — Buyers still love timber. Well-specified engineered oak or timber flooring communicates quality and can increase perceived value. If your home has original timber under carpet, sanding and resealing is a cost-effective alternative to full replacement, and certainly worth considering.
Hybrid and laminate planks — Modern hybrid and laminate products now closely mimic timber while offering waterproof, scratch-resistant performance at a lower price point. For vendors seeking a quick, durable update that suits kitchens, entryways and living areas, these floors strike a great balance between cost, appearance and longevity — all attractive points for buyers.
Carpet where it matters (or gone where it doesn’t) — In bedrooms, clean, neutral carpet can add warmth and improve acoustics. Wall-to-wall carpet that looks tired or stained will almost always detract from buyer perception, so either professional deep-cleaning or replacement before listing is strongly recommended.
Underlay and transitions — the invisible value adds — Buyers may not consciously notice underlay and joinery, but they notice the result: quieter rooms, comfortable feet, no squeaks and clean transitions between zones. Spending a modest amount on quality underlay and tidy threshold work lifts the finish level and supports a higher sale price.
But how do I choose the right upgrade for resale?
Match neighbourhood expectations. If your suburb is dominated by period homes, a well-finished timber or engineered timber floor will usually outperform a cheap, ultra-contemporary product. However; in newer developments, a modern hybrid or laminate in neutral tones often delivers better value for money. Look at recent sales in your area to give you a marker of success.
Prioritise high-visibility zones. Start in the entry, living areas and kitchen — these are seen first in inspections and in listing photos. Bedrooms and secondary spaces can follow if budget allows.
Think resale, not personal taste. Choose neutral, light-to-mid tones and plank widths that read as contemporary but timeless. Avoid very dark or polarising colours that could narrow the buyer pool. Again, checking recent listings can help here. Which houses went for more than you expected? Or less? Can you pinpoint how finishes contributed?
Factor in time and disruption. If your listing timetable is short, opt for flooring solutions that install fast and can be completed with minimal trades on site. Our team can help decide which solution may be right for you, and we always aim for the quickest turnaround possible - often within 7 business days.
What kind of returns can I expect?
While the exact uplift from a flooring upgrade depends on many factors (market conditions, property type, location, quality of finish), real-estate experts consistently list smart cosmetic updates (paint, floors, kitchens) among the top ways to make a house more marketable, because they refresh the property’s presentation without overcapitalising.
What are your top tips on where to go from here?
Get a targeted quote focused on the zones that matter most for selling.
Confirm sub-floor condition and ensure installation will be high quality (even the best product can look cheap if installed poorly).
Replacing worn carpet or outdated finishes with neutral, durable options often costs a fraction of a full renovation, yet delivers measurable uplift in buyer appeal.Retain some spare planks or carpet off-cuts for future repair (buyers often ask about this if they see high-end flooring).
Most importantly: keep documentation (invoices, product information) as part of your presentation to buyers or agents—it shows quality and care.