Answers by Tara McGuire

Great question, and the honest answer is: it depends on the condition and your price point — but in today's market, a flooring allowance rarely performs as well as just doing the work.Here's what we see consistently in the Austin and Central Texas market: buyers are stretched on cash after a down payment and closing costs. When they see worn carpet, they mentally add $10,000–$15,000 to their "problems to fix" list — and they discount their offer by more than the actual cost of the floors. A flooring allowance sounds generous, but buyers often can't visualize it and their agents will advise them to negotiate as if the problem isn't being addressed at all.Luxury vinyl plank that matches your existing tile is exactly the right call. It's cost-effective, durable, and creates that seamless, move-in-ready feel that drives strong offers and fewer inspection negotiation headaches. If the carpet is showing visible wear, I'd pull it. The ROI almost always pencils out.— Tara McGuire, The McGuire Team at Bramlett Partners | Austin, TX