Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Rental Property

Over time your rental property will inevitably experience some wear and tear due to regular use. This is particularly noticeable in the flooring, making it essential to carefully consider the best flooring options for your rental property to keep it looking its best for as long as possible. Choosing the wrong flooring or going for cheap materials may seem like a good choice in the beginning, but it may become damaged easier and you’re likely going to have to replace it, inevitably costing you more money down the line. Whether you’re currently planning a renovation or simply exploring future options for a property, it’s important to make informed decisions. Let’s take an in-depth look at the most tenant-friendly flooring choices available.

Important Factors to Consider

When choosing the right flooring for your rental, the management experts at Utopia Management, an esteemed property management firm, shared the most important factors to take into consideration. Here are three of the main things you should think about before committing. 

• Cost – You want to consider if the flooring is within your intended budget and if its a good value for what it costs.

• Durability – In a rental where you may have high traffic or many different tenants, you’ll want flooring that is low maintenance and long-lasting.

• Aesthetics – When it comes to flooring, its best to stay away from personal taste and choose neutral flooring that will appeal to the majority of tenants. 

Types of Flooring to Consider For Your Rental

Choosing the best flooring for your rental property is essential to ensure durability, appeal, and ease of maintenance. Different types of flooring have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s vital to consider factors like budget, location, the current rental market, and the specific needs of your tenants. Here are some of the best rental-friendly flooring options to consider: 

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is both cost-effective and durable, making it a favored option for rentals. It can mimic the look of tile, stone, or hardwood but it’s a lot more affordable and typically easier to maintain. Laminate flooring is very easy to install, making it a great choice for a first rental property or beginners and it can even be laid on top of existing flooring, reducing your overall costs of renovation. 

Hardwood

Hardwood is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after flooring options by buyers and renters, however, they are also on the expensive side. If your budget allows it, hardwood flooring is a great way to attract potential renters and add value to your property. While pricey, hardwoods can be a great investment and they can last an incredibly long time when properly cared for. One of the other good things about hardwood flooring is that it can be restored fairly easily by sanding away scratches and applying sealant to make it stain and water-resistant. If hardwood is just out of reach you can also consider engineered hardwood which is a less expensive option but gives a similar aesthetic. 

Porcelain or Ceramic Tiles

Another classing option to consider is tile, especially for bathrooms and kitchens Tile comes in a variety of shapes, colors, and patterns giving you endless choices depending on your taste and budget. It is also extremely durable and resistant to liquids, stains, and odors. Not to mention it’s incredibly easy to clean so it will last a very long time. Tile is also a great option for warmer climates as it tends to stay cooler. However, while durable, keep in mind tile isn’t resistant to cracks or chips and it can be difficult to install so it may be best to leave this job to a professional. 

Luxury Vinyl Plank or Tile (LVP or LVT)

Luxury Vinyl Plank or Tile is another affordable flooring option that mimics the look of natural materials such as hardwood or stone but is made of vinyl. This flooring comes in either plank or tile shapes depending on whether you want to mimic stone or wood planks in your property. Similarly to laminate flooring, luxury vinyl is incredibly durable and easy to clean and maintain. Luxury vinyl is extremely versatile and has an incredibly realistic appearance, not to mention it’s long-lasting, making it a great rental-friendly flooring option. 

Carpet

Carpet can be relatively inexpensive, is a great heat and noise insulator, and can give the space a cozy feel. However, it may not be the best option for a rental property. Carpet isn’t waterproof, can stains easily, tends to hold odors, and is often difficult to clean. In a rental property, you can’t always be sure your tenants will be looking after your property as you would, so if the carpet gets ruined you may have to replace the entire flooring. If you do want to use carpet in your rental property, stick to the bedroom or living room.