A recent email with a pretty common dilemma.

Ben- I was given your name from a friend, Bridget N.. I was wondering if you could answer a question for me? We are putting our house on the market in 1-2 years. This summer we are going to update our bathroom. Our biggest question right now is…..ceramic tile or linoleum? I know that ceramic tile is an upgrade, but is it going to make that much of a difference in the resale value of our house if we go ceramic tile vs. linoleum? Our house is under 1,100 square feet, definitely a starter home. Someone else also pointed out that our kitchen is currently linoleum so maybe we do want to stick with linoleum? I know there is no reason for you to be giving me advice, but would greatly appreciate it. Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule!
Kristine

My Reply: Kristine,

That’s a tough one. Installing ceramic in lieu of vinyl will not add
a specific dollar amount to the value of your home. That being said,
it will and can make an impression. If a buyer sees 3 homes and 2
have vinyl and one had ceramic, it is possible that the ceramic along
with other features could elevate your home and give the perception of
quality finishes and fixtures.

That being said, a fresh new, well maintained home also adds an
intangible value. in 1-2 years one would hope that both tile and
vinyl will look fresh and newer. 4-5 years and the ceramic will win
assuming that caulk and grout are kept clean. ( I looked up where you
live) Your home is of a certain age that new tile could help
modernize more than vinyl and approaching 200k in value ceramic is as
much an upgrade as it is expected.

If the bathroom is not off the kitchen, then I would not worry about
not matching finishes. I should add this thought too. I tend to do
most of my own tile work so I always go tile.

I hope that helps. If the market is as tight in 1-2 years as it is
today you will want every bit of leverage you can get. When there are
more houses than buyers it becomes a beauty contest.

I hope that helps. I sell homes as well as pontificate on them, so
feel free to drop a line come those 1-2 years.

Ben

What would you have said?

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