From a renter's point of view, I was going to say floor boards, but after reading the other responses I agree, go with the carpet.

The only reason I was going to say floor boards is because all of the rentals I've been in have had cheap carpet in a light carpet, and let me tell you it's very, very hard to keep clean not bein stain resistant and also a light colour.

So go for the carpet but definitely in a dark colour!