C.L.
We used a place called iDeal Floors in Plano and we went with laminate (because of the kids and dogs). Laminate is much harder, does not dent as easily and was a lot more cost effective. Wood has it's benefits too, but I'm very happy with our choice. The only thing that has taken some getting used to is the "dust bunnies" that gather in the corners...I assume they were spread amongst the carpet fibers and just not as noticable before. I sweep and vaccuum and attack the corners with the Dust Buster a LOT.
Hope Depot does a great job on flooring as well, we just used them to replace all the carpet in our bedrooms. They had some of the best prices on wood and laminate when we were looking.