[ezra76]

My dad used real hardwood when he tore up all the carpets 2 years ago. The big advantage I see is being able to sand down and refinish a spot, which he already had to do once. You will have your choice of stains and finishes. I don't know a whole lot about the laminates. I've seen them in a lot of houses, as I move furniture. The bad thing I would say about most of the laminates is if you tear one up you'll have to pull and replace that section I would think.