by James Goodwin

Created on: May 01, 2008   Last Updated: January 31, 2010

Whether you are looking to increase the value of your home, or simply desire a new look in your abode, changing the flooring is a relatively easy, inexpensive, and potentially fun way to give your place a new look and feel.

You can hire a professional installer, or if you have the time and energy, you can do-it-yourself. Either way, you may be amazed by the difference.

I recently remodeled my small condo. It had old carpet and linoleum floors when I purchased it a few years back, and after two dogs and much traffic, it had gotten to a point where I simply had to deal with it. The transformation was amazing, and I found the entire experience to be educational and enjoyable.

First I had to decide what I wanted to do. After a few trips to local hardware stores to examine the possibilities, I decided to forego carpet altogether, largely because it is very hard to keep clean, especially with dogs around. I eventually settled on a floating 'Pergo-style' harwood floor for the living area, and large slate tiles for the kitchen, bathroom, and entryway. I had never installed any of this before.

I found that moving all of my belongings out of the area and pulling out the carpet and linoleum was enough work to justify yanking the trim and repainting the rooms as well. This allowed me to select colors that complemented my flooring selections, and replace that old trim, which had been repainted numerous times, with a clear pine that also agreed with the flooring.

I ended up replacing the old toilet, and a few doors, which raised the price and workload a bit, but again allowed me to make everything match, just the way I wanted. I changed the old curtains out for fairly inexpensive bamboo blinds and while I was at it, I changed the lighting as well, choosing sharp-looking, energy-conserving, adjustable track lights that highlighted the space as I wished.

This all took me about a month, and when I was done, I threw down a few strategically-placed area rugs, which again gave me the freedom to select complementary colors and styles.

Sounds like a lot of work, right? Well, it was, but when I was finished, my friends and relatives were simply amazed at the transformation. A real estate agent called it the nicest unit she had seen, which was very flattering in a 100-unit complex. What had been a very rundown unit just weeks earlier was suddenly very pleasant and enjoyable, and it's value definitely increased.

Whether you are looking to sell, rent, or simply enjoy a fun change in your home, changing the flooring can be inexpensive, transformative, and yes - great fun!

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