Rehab cost guide
How Much Does Flooring Cost on a Flip? (2026)
Floors cover the whole house — here's how to pick a material that looks great and protects margin.
Flooring on a flip typically costs $2–$9 per square foot installed depending on material. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) — the flip standard — runs about $3–$6 installed; carpet $2–$5; tile $7–$15; and refinishing existing hardwood $3–$5. For a 1,500 sq ft home in LVP, budget roughly $5,000–$9,000.
Flooring touches every room, so the per-square-foot choice adds up fast. Luxury vinyl plank has become the flip default because it's durable, waterproof, looks like wood, and installs quickly and cheaply.
These are general 2026 installed estimates; material grade and local labor move them. Existing hardwood is often worth refinishing rather than replacing.
Cost breakdown
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) | $3–$6 / sq ft | The flip standard — durable, waterproof |
| Carpet | $2–$5 / sq ft | Bedrooms; cheapest but less durable |
| Tile | $7–$15 / sq ft | Baths, entries; higher labor |
| Refinish existing hardwood | $3–$5 / sq ft | Often cheaper than replacing |
| New hardwood | $8–$15 / sq ft | Higher-end neighborhoods only |
What affects the cost
- Total square footage and number of material transitions.
- Whether existing hardwood can be refinished instead of replaced.
- Material grade and the finish level your comps require.
- Subfloor condition and leveling needs.
Figures are general 2026 estimates and vary widely by market, scope, and materials. Always confirm with local contractor bids before budgeting a deal.
Build a real rehab budget in FlipOS
Turn these ballparks into a line-item estimate tied to your deal analysis and live project budget. 14-day free trial, no credit card.
Get started freeFrequently asked questions
- What's the best flooring for a flip?
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is the most popular flip flooring — it's waterproof, durable, looks like wood, and is fast and inexpensive to install at about $3–$6 per square foot. Refinishing existing hardwood is also a strong, cost-effective option when it's present.
- How much does flooring cost for a whole house flip?
- At roughly $3–$6 per square foot for LVP, a 1,500 sq ft home runs about $5,000–$9,000 installed. Tile in baths and entries costs more per foot; carpet in bedrooms costs less.
- Should I refinish or replace hardwood floors?
- If existing hardwood is structurally sound, refinishing ($3–$5 per square foot) is usually cheaper than replacement and appeals to buyers. Replace only if the wood is too damaged or thin to sand.