5 Flooring Tips for Investment Properties in 2025

When designing for an investment property, simplicity is key. To appeal to a broad demographic, avoid flooring choices that are overly bold, colourful, or trendy. While you might adore bright green carpet or ornate tiles, a prospective renter or buyer may see these features as dated or off-putting. Instead, opt for neutral flooring that can act as a blank canvas for others to decorate according to their own style.

For example:

• Laminate, vinyl and hybrid flooring in timber-look styles are an excellent choice for its simple, modern aesthetic and wide appeal. It complements most interior designs and offers the timeless charm of natural wood without the cost.
• Solution-dyed nylon and polypropylene carpet are available in neutral tones, providing a clean and stylish look that suits a variety of interiors.

Neutral palettes not only make a space look larger and brighter, but they also remain in fashion longer, helping your investment stand the test of time. 

Before you select materials and flooring, think about who will rent or purchase the property. Understanding your target market will help you make informed decisions that enhance the property’s appeal.

• For inner-city apartments appealing to professionals or young couples, minimal maintenance is a priority. Hybrid flooring or timber-look laminate flooring can be installed throughout the space for a clean, contemporary finish. In smaller bedrooms, carpets are ideal as they add warmth underfoot.
• For suburban homes likely to attract families, durability and practicality are key. Kids and pets can be tough on flooring, so consider solution-dyed nylon carpet for bedrooms and living areas. Its stain resistance and durability make it a standout choice. For common spaces, hybrid flooring, laminate and vinyl are perfect as they are easy to care for and are available at different price points.

Visit open inspections in the area or browse local listings online to see what materials are popular. Real estate agents can also offer valuable insights into buyer and renter expectations for your property type and location.

Budgeting is essential for any renovation or building project. To maximise return on investment, prioritise quality materials where it matters most—and that includes flooring. While high-quality flooring can feel like a significant expense, it’s a worthwhile investment that enhances the look, feel, and longevity of your property.

Some cost-effective ideas include:

• Investing in laminate flooring for open-plan living areas where durability and visual appeal matter.
• Exploring wool carpet for key spaces if you’re preparing a property for sale. Wool is luxurious and naturally insulating, adding value and appeal to buyers looking for premium finishes.
• Small features such as stylish light fittings, door handles, or tapware can elevate a space without breaking the bank.

Durability is especially important for rental properties, where regular wear and tear are unavoidable. Choosing flooring with strong warranties and long-lasting materials will save you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.

Laminate and vinyls are excellent options for hard flooring scenarios as they are:

• Ideal for kitchens, hallways, living spaces and high-traffic areas.
• Easy to clean and maintain, reducing upkeep costs for landlords.
• Visually appealing, with timber-look styles that elevate the aesthetic of any home.

For homes being prepared for sale, wool carpet is a premium option that provides lasting beauty. It’s durable, luxurious, and naturally fire-resistant, which adds appeal for quality-conscious buyers. Wondering where to buy wool carpet? Flooring Xtra offer many high-quality wool carpets to suit a range of budgets.

Low-maintenance flooring is crucial for both buyers and renters. Nobody wants to spend their weekends worrying about hard-to-clean carpets or fragile floors. Here are some great options:

• Laminate flooring, vinyl and hybrid styles: Easy-to-clean surfaces makes them a favourite in high-traffic areas. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping keep it looking fresh.
• Solution-dyed nylon carpet, triexta carpet and polypropylene: Their stain-resistant properties make them perfect for families, as spills can be cleaned with ease.
• Rugs: Adding rugs can protect high-traffic areas and enhance the space’s style if you’re staging your home for sale. For hallways, long runners for hallways help prevent wear and add visual interest. In children’s rooms, round rugs for nursery spaces are both practical and charming.

How often should you vacuum carpet?

Vacuuming frequently will help reduce wear and tear on your carpet by removing dirt and grit from fibres. Vacuum frequently, weekly if possible and book in a yearly professional clean too.

What is Triexta carpet?

A Triexta carpet is stain resistant and durable, is great for those on a budget, and is fantastic in family homes and high traffic areas. Triexta is has a similar composition to polyester and is also environmentally friendly, partly derived from corn sugar.

Is laminate flooring resilient?

Laminate flooring has a high scratch resistance due to its melamine and aluminium oxide wear layer finishes. It is a good option for busy homes and homes with pets.

Disclaimer: In some states of Australia, the building regulations for Vinyl Planks, Vinyl Tiles and Hybrid flooring varies. Meaning they may not be suitable for areas requiring water resistance, such as bathrooms and toilets. We advise to always ask your local Flooring Xtra store for the correct advice regarding the local regulations. We also advise to follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation instructions and guidelines, not following the instructions could make the product not fit for purpose, for the area it’s being installed into and void your product warranty. To ensure you get the appropriate product for those areas, please contact your local Flooring Xtra store.