Is It Really Worth It to Refinish My Hardwood Floors Before Selling My House!?

Heritage Hardwood Floor Co
Jul 8
3 min read

If you're getting ready to sell your home, you probably have a mile long checklist of things to do. Paint, de-clutter, deep clean, etc. But what about your floors? More specifically your dull, scratched hardwood floors. We have seen it cost homeowners in the long run, as they've already worked with an agent to list their home, and despite lots of interest-- no offers. The agent's feedback from potential buyers often consists of "the house is beautiful, but the hardwood floors are a bigger project we don't want to undertake".

So, the big question is: Is it really worth it for me to refinish my hardwood floors before selling my home? Here's why it is!

Reason #1 - Floors Are A First Impression Moment

Before buyers even notice your light fixtures or fancy new backsplash, their eyes hit the floor. If it's dull, scratched, or showing signs of wear, it sets the tone—“This place needs work.” And guess what? That mental tally of updates they’re calculating? It just got a little longer (and more expensive). When the floors are recently refinished it gives the impression that the home has been maintained, loved, and even if it needs to be painted, it feels more ""move-in ready."

Reason #2 - It Is One of the Highest-ROI Projects You Can Do

According to the National Association of Realtors, refinishing hardwood floors can recoup up to 147% of the cost. Translation: you’ll likely make money on the investment, or at the very least break even while boosting your sale price or helping your home sell faster. Plus, it photographs better for listing photos. When buyers are swiping through dozens (at least) of homes online-- beautifully refinished hardwood flooring is a scroll stopper.

Refinishing hardwood floors ranks as one of the most satisfying home improvement projects . – NAR's Remodeling Impact Report

Reason #3 - Buyers Want "Done", Not "To-Do"

Today’s buyers are busy. They want a beautiful space they can move into and enjoy... not one that adds another project to their list. Is it worth it to refinish my hardwood floors before I sell my house, even if there's other areas that could use updating- YES! When your floors are already refinished, you’re checking one thing of of their list while removing a potential barrier, reducing negotiations, and making life easier for everyone.

Reason #4 - Its a Competitive Edge In a Tricky Market

Whether the market’s hot or slow, a house that shows well will always stand out. If other listings in your area are rocking builder-grade or beat-up floors, yours instantly feels higher-end and better maintained. That’s leverage.

Reason #5 - If You're Moving Anyway, You're Already Inconvenienced

Let’s be honest—most people view refinishing floors as a bigger headache than, say, slapping on a new coat of paint or swapping out cabinet hardware. But here’s the thing: if you’re moving anyway, you’re already halfway into the chaos.

Painting feels easier—but flooring pays off more.

When done right, updated floors wow buyers, boost value, and make the whole home feel new.

So, Is It Worth It to Refinish Your Hardwood Floors Before Selling Your House?

If your hardwood floors are looking worn and you’re trying to get top dollar (or just want a quicker, cleaner sale), yes—refinishing is 100% worth it. It’s one of the few home upgrades that pays you back with interest, both financially and emotionally.