Hardwood floors may be on Home Buyer’s wish lists nationwide, and true, they are a very desirable feature. But I’ve gotta say that here in Arizona, this time of year and in fact all year-round, a great pool is numero uno on most Buyer’s agendas. Not surprisingly, Arizona tops all other states in “Pools and pool-service companies per capita” according to Porch.com‘s data.
By Keith Loria
From open floor plans to updated appliances in the kitchen and everything in between, prospective buyers are all over the board when it comes to what they’re looking for in a home. But hardwood floors are one feature that many prospective buyers have at the top of their wish list when searching for their dream home, something that sellers should take note of as they prepare their home for sale.
In fact, according to a survey by the National Wood Flooring Association, 82 percent of real estate professionals said that homes with hardwood floors sold faster—and often for more money.
Not only are hardwood floors ecologically friendly, many leading health associations agree that they’re the perfect choice for those looking for a healthy home because they don’t collect dust and other allergens. In addition, a recent EPA study found that pesticides used in gardens and homes accumulate on floors and other surfaces in the home, but wood floors greatly reduce the accumulation of such toxins. Hardwood floors don’t trap or harbor dust mites or molds either.
Homes with open floor plans stand to benefit from hardwood flooring because it creates the feeling of continuity homeowners are looking for, which will go a long way toward attracting house hunters.
Despite the existence of modern architectural trends in flooring, hardwood has come a long way over the years. With more colors, styles and species available than ever before, hardwood flooring can still compete with floor tiles and other artificial materials.
Available in a variety of colors and grains; light, medium or dark shades; and a variety of sizes, styles, finishes and species, the options are endless. While maple, mahogany and oak are the most popular choices today, some homeowners are going the extra mile by investing in exotic species such as Brazilian Cherry and Purpleheart. It’s also important to remember that more traditional hardwood flooring is less expensive, and solid wood flooring can be refinished several times to increase its lifespan.
To maintain your hardwood floors, regularly sweep them with a soft-bristle broom or dust mop to remove surface dirt and debris. If your floor contains beveled edges, use a vacuum with a soft bristle brush attachment to remove dirt and debris from between the floorboards.
In the end, remember that when someone enters your home, they usually look down before they look up, so that first step is vital for making a great first impression.
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2016. All rights reserved.
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