We just went through this thought process and actually decided to forego the new carpeting. We wanted to put in something stain resistant and attractive and the cost was looking upwards of $6k. I work with many young professionals and the feedback I got from them was "no carpet." Apparently the hardwoods/laminates are really preferred among this set. If you're still staying w/ carpet, and if you go down the road of seeking something that is soft, stain/wear resistant, and attractive, then I would recommend looking into the carpets made w/ Dupont Sorona techonology. Mohawk has the exclusive line right now and IMHO it is noticeably softer than the Stainmaster options we felt; it is also made from corn so it is "green." However, if you're only carpeting for show then maybe you don't want to go that route...? Sorry - can't help w/ color. Certainly no one told me that light colors are "out" when we were pondering these issues. Multi-colored friezes were definitely pushed by the carpet places but frankly my young professional friends were not fans (!).

I think carpet has it's place amongst some buyers. I used to be a Realtor and lots of buyers don't have the budget or want to spend the $$ on wood floors. I also think in colder weather, it helps to keep feet and rooms warmer. We have it throughout our upper level and to be honest, I don't understand why people think it requires more maintenance. I vacuum upstairs as much as I have to vacuum the wood floors on the main floor.. I also have to wash the floors on the main floor but I don't wash my carpet.. In our situation, the wood floors require more care than the carpet does.

I should have said that we have wood floors in most of home, except for carpeting in bedrooms. I too would prefer wood floor in master, but, our 30 year old wood floors are of the medium oak vintage, and I’m so “over” oak/color. I hesitate to add more of what I dislike, hence probably going to carpet again. I have considered a hard surface floor that would be a mix of wood tones that would compliment the oak hallway leading to that bedroom, but wondered if that could be acceptable. Thoughts?

You should have your new numbers within a day. Our costs doubled from June 2020 to May 2021 and now are settling down to 140-160% of June 2020. That looks like the new bottom. Lumber "quotes" are only good for a few days and to make them good you have to pay for them and take delivery quickly.