The cost of the wood would vary according to the choice you make. Hardwood floors will last a lifetime, the investment will be for a lifetime. The look & feel and even the sound of real hardwood have been important for our desicion. We prefered a real wood inclusive polish. The parket pieces are direcly glued to the concrete. With this technique the foot fall sound problem is already solved. Installing across the room was hard work, but it was is worth.