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Amanda Pellegrino

People who stage homes for a living swear by these cheap tricks to make your home look more expensive

Since interior designers and real estate agents are constantly staging homes to get them livable, aesthetic, or ready to sell, they’re full of tips and tricks to create an expensive-looking home without breaking the bank. Whether it’s adding pillows to your bed for a more luxurious hotel-like style or curating metallic knick-knacks for eye-catching accents, people who stage homes for a living swear by these tricks to make your home look more expensive, for a budget-friendly price.

Hiding eyesores like cords inside a cable management box

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D-Line Cable Management Box

“To handle unsightly cords, I use cable covers or decorative boxes to keep things neat,” says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. This cable management box is so easy to use. It has three holes along the back for you to weave cables through, and the lid easily comes off when you need to restart the power strip or unplug something. Use this to clean up your desk setup, to corrall cords in your TV stand, or anywhere unsightly electronics are ruining the vibes.

Covering outlets & streamlining cables

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Sleek Socket Power Strip Concealer

Another easy way to implement Bramlett’s advice is by investing in something like the wildly popular Sleek Socket. It plugs flat into your outlet and runs power to a power strip so you can easily charge devices and connect electronics when the outlet is inaccessible. A bonus use? If you hate the look of the cords (who doesn’t), you can use this to run your cables and cords behind furniture, to hide them from sight.

Cleaning windows with a professional-grade squeegee

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DSV Standard Window Squeegee, 2-in-1 Window Cleaner

One secret to an instantly more expensive looking home? “Give all the mirrors, windows, and window screens a really good cleaning,” says executive design strategist Lindsay Tan. This professional-grade window squeegee can help. It features a duel head, one side is a rubber squeegee, and the other boasts an absorbent microfiber cloth for a streak-free clean. Plus, it extends to 55 inches, so you can get every window in your home so shiny you’ll forget it’s there.

Getting window screens cleaner than ever with a mesh brush

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MyLifeUNIT Mesh Screen Cleaner

What’s worse than a streaky window? A streaky window and a dirty screen. You won’t have to worry about that with this brush, though. It has tough fibers that are long enough to pull dust and grime from between the screen’s tiny holes. Simply add water and soap and rub the brush up and down along the surface until it’s clean. Plus, it has two ergonomic ways of holding, a handle affixed to its base, and a longer attachment to get into tougher-to-reach places.

Swapping basic outlets for sleek covers that quietly impress

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ELEGRP Matte Black Standard Wall Outlet Cover (10-Pack)

“Swapping out cheap plastic outlet covers for matte or metal ones makes a bigger impact than people think,” says Alex Smith of Render3DQuick.com. “I always recommend it when we are prepping a space for a rendering that needs to feel polished but accessible. It is one of those details that subconsciously signals quality without screaming for attention.”

These outlets come with an elegant matte finish and screwless plate, plus they’re durable, easy to install, and self-grounding. A small detail, sure—but one that can totally shift the vibe of a space.

Updating generic light switch covers with design-forward plates

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Henne Bery Decorative Light Switch Cover (2-Pack)

Another easy way to apply Smith’s recommendation is by updating your light switch covers, too. These stainless steel plates offer that same polished-yet-accessible vibe, swapping generic plastic for something that feels more intentional. Just a few screws and you’ve got an instant upgrade.

Adding chic under-cabinet lighting

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Brilliant Evolution LED Under Cabinet Lights (4-Pack)

Many home stagers agreed with licensed real estate agent Michael McGuirk’s advice to add under-cabinet lighting. These LED light bars make it easy to implement, and come in a set of four you can disperse throughout your kitchen. These battery-operated lights come with a remote control where you can adjust the brightness, or set a timer so they go off after 15, 30, 60, or 120 minutes.

Refreshing interiors by painting doors (or more) a new color

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Chalk Style Paint - for Furniture, Home Decor, Crafts - Eco-Friendly - All-in-One - No Wax Needed (Happy Hour [Mint Green], Pint (16 oz))

While white interior doors are traditional, “...painting doors a new color is an easy way to quickly refresh a room's look,” says Omri Schwartz, interior design expert and general manager of Nazmiyal Rugs.

This all-in-one paint makes refreshing your interior doors a breeze. It comes in dozens of colors that guaranteed to make a splash, while the chalky, matte finish keeps things modern. And, there’s no need to stop at just the door — the formula is designed for indoor and outdoor use on wood, laminate, glass, metal, and plastic, and it dries within 30 minutes of application.

Touching up paint dings & scratches with easy refillable pens

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Slobproof Refillable Paint Pens (5-Pack)

If scratches or dings in your walls are detracting from the room, these paint pens make touchups simple — and help ensure your space has a fresh paint-job feel like Schwartz mentioned. The five pens can be filled with your interior paint so you don’t have to break out the full bucket every time, and they’re made to be used on walls, ceilings, or trim. The paint inside will stay fresh for years, too.

Boosting curb appeal with eye-catching accents

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URAGO Solar Pathway Lights (10-Pack)

Michael McGuirk, licensed real estate agent, also offers this unique advice: “One way to make a house look more appealing and expensive is what greets the prospective buyer's eyes when they pull up — curb appeal! A well-maintained lawn, fresh mulch, and strategically placed plants or flowers can instantly boost a home's appearance.”

These upgrades don’t have to be expensive. Something as small as a few well-placed pathway lights lining the driveway will make it look that much more inviting and cared for. These cast eye-catching patterns and are solar-powered, so you just have to push them into the grass where you want and leave them be.

Concealing brown spots on shrubs & grass

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Seymour RENEW Grass and Shrub

Grass and greenery that’s, well, green, does make a home look nicer. But if your climate or location makes it a challenge, try this grass and shrub paint that you can spray right onto dry, discolored areas. It’s designed to dry quickly and last through rain and lawn watering. By focusing attention on the outside curb appeal of your space, per licensed real estate agent Michael McGuirk’s advice, you can make the whole house look more expensive.

Adding decor to your yard

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TONULAX Solar Garden Lights (2-Pack)

Add a little curb appeal with these solar garden lights, which are easy to stick down into any foliage you have around your yard. They are powered via the sun, so you don’t have to plug them in anywhere, and they’re lightweight enough that they’ll sway with the wind. At night, these are a beautiful addition to your outdoor space.

Using a long curtain for that luxe floor-to-ceiling look

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NICETOWN Semi Sheer Linen Curtains

Ryan Fitzgerald, realtor and the owner of Raleigh Realty, recommends curtains that touch the floor. “This made the room feel more luxurious without spending much.” These linen curtains are available in sizes from 48 inches to 144 inches long, to make them feel extra expensive and custom to your specific space. They have a semi-sheer flax texture to offer privacy while still letting in the sun, and come in over two dozen colors for even more customization.

Brightening up your space to make it look bigger

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Brilliant Evolution LED Lights (3-Pack)

Rebecca Hidalgo Rains, CEO and Managing Broker of the real estate firm Integrity All Star Realty, says, “Great lighting or a nice ceiling fan can really make a home punch above its weight class. Always make sure the room is light, bright, and white since it makes the space look bigger, brighter, and more expensive.” It’s simple to keep your space bright with puck lights — these are LED lights that you can stick anywhere from under your cabinets to a dark stairwell, a back closet, and more.

Creating visual interest with a unique area rug

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Moynesa Ultra-Thin Washable Area Rug

“With the right rug, you can add interest to a room,” says Omri Schwartz, interior design expert and general manager of Nazmiyal Rugs. “Choose natural fibers such as wool or leather for durability and luxury, or opt for vintage-inspired designs if you want something unusual.”

This ultra-thin area rug is a show-stopping addition to your room, effortlessly blending a vintage design with modern colors for a unique look. The nonshedding, low-pile rug sits flush against the floor, and the TPE backing prevents it from slipping and sliding around the room. Plus, it can be thrown into the washing machine.

Hanging linen or velvet curtains close to the ceiling

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H.VERSAILTEX Linen Curtains

“Floor-to-ceiling drapes, especially in fabrics like linen or velvet, add elegance and make ceilings feel higher. A trick I always use: Hang them close to the ceiling to give the illusion of height,” says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. These linen drapes are perfect, and come with two panels that are each 84 inches in length. Choose from one of 19 different colors, and from nine sizes and panel widths.

Making a statement with bold, DIY-friendly wallpaper

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Livebor Leaf Peel & Stick Wallpaper

“Bold-patterned wallpaper can make a space look luxe – often for a lot of cash,” says Omer Reiner, owner of FL Cash Home Buyers. “Even in top-of-the-market homes, a little wallpaper of any type can go a long way.” This peel-and-stick option adds depth without the drama — perfect for powder rooms, pantries, or accent walls. The olive leaf pattern is chic and botanical, while the thick vinyl material makes installation easy for even the occasional DIYer.

Dropping a neutral rug to unify a space

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MontVoo Nonslip Kitchen Rug

“A neutral or soft-patterned rug can unify a space beautifully,” says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. This neutral rug is perfect for areas like your kitchen or bathroom, and is made with a woven texture and a nonslip bottom that will stay in place, no matter how many people walk over it. It measures 20 inches by 47 inches, but there are a bunch of sizes and a few other neutral colors to choose from.

Updating kitchen cabinets & drawers with modern pulls

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Ravinte 5-Inch Matte Cabinet Pulls (30-Pack)

One easy way to elevate your kitchen? Add new handles with modern shapes and finishes. “Kitchen renovations can be expensive, but a simple change in hardware, like replacing outdated knobs and pulls with sleek and modern ones, can instantly refresh the entire look,” says executive design strategist Lindsay Tan.

These 5-inch pulls are made of stainless steel and feature a matte black, brushed brass, or satin nickel finish that instantly brings a timeless, modern vibe to your kitchen. They can be installed horizontally on drawers or vertically on cabinets to keep everything coordinated.

Setting out flameless candles with realistic flickering wicks

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Eywamage Flameless Candles (Set of 3)

“A flameless glass candle set can set the mood in your home while allowing you to live free of the stress of fire-spreading,” says Fort Worth real estate expert, Brady Bridges.

This set of three flameless candles comes in a selection of stunning and reflective glass votives and feature a real flame-like effect to set the mood without needing to worry about blowing them out when you leave. Plus, the set comes with a remote to turns them on, control the dimmer, and set the 4- or 8-hour timer.

Enhancing scent with a reed diffuser that has real flowers

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COCODOR Preserved Real Flower Reed Diffuser

A surefire way to make your home look more expensive is to make it smell more expensive. “Reed diffusers, incense sticks, scented candles, and aroma diffusers are non-negotiable additions to your bucket list,” Simran Kaur, founder of design blog Room You Love, explains.

This reed diffuser set is exactly what she’s talking about. It features a chic reusable glass bottle and 6.7 ounces of oil — which comes in pleasing scents like lavender, jasmine, and cotton. Plus, it features chic black reed sticks and preserved flowers so it not only smells great, but looks great too.

Hanging neutral or contemporary artwork

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3M CLAW Drywall Picture Hanger (4-Pack)

While your space should always reflect who you are, a more expensive home often translates into neutral and contemporary design choices. Start with your wall art. Nick Chatzigeorgakis, CEO of design-build firm IntraBuild says, "I [...] recommend removing any personal or overly bold decor items. For instance, we once had to take down a wall of eclectic art in a client’s home and replace it with neutral, contemporary pieces that had broader appeal."

There are so many great places to find affordable artwork — or you can pay for prints on a site like Etsy and hang them yourself. This picture-hanging kit is great for hanging heavier artwork or a neutral mirror. Each drywall anchor in this pack of four can hold up to 45 pounds.

Choosing simple, sculptural vases & decor

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Lvases Snuggle Ceramic Vase Set (Set of 2)

Michael McGuirk, licensed real estate agent, says, “Keeping surfaces free of excess items and choosing simple, elegant decor like vases, candles, or a sculptural piece, can create a curated, high-end vibe.”

This vase set features two separate pieces that snuggle together. Each handmade vase is textured, artful, and minimalist. Ideal for shelves, coffee tables, or centerpieces, they bring elegance and modern vibes to any space.

Enhancing ambiance with an elegant candle

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Amagic Extra Large Flameless Candle

One more way to incorporate McGuirk’s advice? Style your space with chic candles. This flameless candle is simple yet elegant, and lets you achieve full candle vibes without messing with flames or soot. It’s 6 inches tall and wide so packs a punch, and is powered by AA batteries (which are not included), and an included remote lets you adjust the brightness and set timers.

Swapping in a keypad door lock that’s sure to impress

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TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock

Michael McGuirk, licensed real estate agent says, “Another upgrade that adds a high-end vibe is installing smart home features. They add convenience and appeal to modern buyers.”

This keypad deadbolt allows you to create up to 20 passcodes for family and a one-time code for guests. It auto-locks in your choice of 10 to 99 seconds, and features a one-touch lock option. Built from durable aluminum alloy, it’s weather-resistant and tamper-safe. This installs easily with a screwdriver so there’s no fuss or tech degree required.

Adding soft pillows to make your bed feel & look like a hotel

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Utopia Bedding Cooling Bed Pillows (Set of 2)

“I know from experience that how a bedroom is staged makes all the difference when it comes to getting interest from buyers,” says Kurtis Forster, licensed real estate agent at ViewHomes. “When your bed looks more full, it makes it look more luxurious, which translates into more expensive.”

This set of two gusseted pillows is designed for dreamy sleep, no matter your position — side, back, or stomach. Stuffed with premium poly fiber and wrapped in a soft, durable cotton blend, they offer the perfect mix of comfort and support. With over 70,000 reviews on Amazon, they’re a crowd favorite for good reason. Sophisticated piping adds style and durability.

Installing highly rated cabinet knobs with luxe detail

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goldenwarm Black and Gold Cabinet Knobs (10 Pack)

Another way to add a modern refresh to your kitchen is with these knobs. The circular design is highlighted by a delicate etched detail that will seamlessly match with your cabinets — no matter the color — to revive your kitchen without breaking the bank. Available in modern finishes like matte black, brass, nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze, these knobs are a best-seller on Amazon with a 4.8-star rating after 14,000 reviews.

Polishing metal hardware around your house

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Flitz Metal Polish and Cleaner Paste

Jake McClure, licensed realtor and CEO of Burling Square Group has a staging secret: “For a final touch, I polish all hardware to make kitchens and bathrooms shine.” This metal polish has so many uses, it’s actually the perfect product to have tucked away for the moment you notice some metal in your home starting to tarnish.

It works wonders on hardware in your kitchen, metal accents on jewelry and accessories, and even on your car. “Worked perfectly on my chrome kitchen hardware. Shiny and new looking again!” affirmed one Amazon reviewer.

Rearranging furniture to maximize space

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Slipstick GorillaSliders Premium Furniture Sliders (16 Pieces)

Nick Chatzigeorgakis, CEO of design-build firm IntraBuild, has some advice. “When staging a space, the first thing I emphasize is creating a functional layout that feels spacious and inviting. For example, in a recent Manhattan luxury apartment renovation, we reconfigured the seating arrangement to maximize the room's flow and highlight key architectural features.”

If moving furniture seems daunting, try adhering these furniture sliders to the bottom of your large pieces. They make it easy to slide furniture on hard surfaces or carpet, so you can create a spacious (read: luxe) layout that’s just to your taste.

Installing easy lighting with a wire-free sconce

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Koopala LED Wall Mounted Reading Light

“Once, I worked with a young couple who had just bought their first home,” explains Ryan Fitzgerald, realtor and the owner of Raleigh Realty. “Their living room was big, but it was pretty empty. We first added different types of lights, like wall lights and table lamps with dimmer switches. This made the room look fancy without costing much.”

This wall mounted light is a great way to add light to a space without any expensive renovations. It uses adhesive to attach directly to the wall, and the modern circular design makes it look like an installed sconce when it’s actually battery-powered. Plus, it has three color temperatures and three brightness levels.

Elevating the bedroom with a smooth silk pillowcase

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ZIMASILK 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

One of the easiest ways to elevate a room and make everything look more expensive is to thoughtfully mix textures. “A silky pillow juxtaposed against a coarse wool throw invites touch and adds a layered richness,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

Besides being smooth, buttery soft, and adding luxurious texture, this silk pillowcase is also cooling to sleep on — and thought to be better for hair and skin by reducing nighttime friction. It comes in more than three dozen colors to fit any decor style, and the zipper closure is hidden for a seamless look. Plus, it can be machine washed on the delicate cycle.

Choosing silky pillowcases that are so budget-friendly

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Bedsure Satin Pillowcases (2-Pack)

Another elegant option that’s supremely budget-friendly, these satin pillowcases elevate the look of your bedroom by adding the sleek, silky texture Kropovinsky suggests. Available in a over 30 sophisticated neutrals, pretty pastels, and glamorous jewel tones, the pillowcases are made of silky-smooth satin with a cooling effect, and are so sleek and soft that your hair and skin will feel great in the morning.

Opting for bathroom towels in sophisticated neutrals

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American Soft Linen Luxury 6 Piece Towel Set

When styling your bathroom, New York City real estate specialist, Colleen Cassel has a favorite styling tip. She suggests adding “fresh, clean neutral colored towels and a shower curtain,” for a budget-friendly way to bring luxury into an oft overlooked room. This set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths, so you can keep everything color-coordinated. Plus, the 100% cotton means they’re super soft while staying very absorbent.

Hanging a neutral-colored shower curtain

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N&Y HOME Waffle-Weave Shower Curtain

Adding a neutral shower curtain like this waterproof one is another way to heed New York City real estate specialist Colleen Cassel’s advice for creating a luxurious bathroom. The waffle-weave style features a sheer mesh window that lets light into the shower and allows for air circulation, while still maintaining warmth and privacy. It even has a built-in snap-on liner that features magnets on both bottom corners to keep it flush against the tub.

Eliminating odors with this clever handmade candle

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Dianne's Custom Candles Odor Eliminating Candle

“Irrespective of how good a space looks, if it smells bad, it's all trash,” says Simran Kaur, founder of design blog Room You Love. This candle doesn’t just come in crowd-pleasing scents like vanilla bean, lilac, apple, and fir trees, it actually absorbs bad odors. That means your home will just smell like flowers — not flowers and that fish you cooked last night. It has a burn time of 80 hours and is handmade with a soy blend wax and cotton wick.

Styling your house with greenery like eucalyptus

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FAVOWREATH Dried Eucalyptus Stems (10 Pieces)

Alecia Taylor, designer at CabinetNow.com, advises you focus on adding greenery to your space. She says, “Eucalyptus, olive branches, or white hydrangeas always add a polished touch.” These eucalyptus stems are easy to style in a vase or hang for a botanical touch in a shower. And since they’re dried, you don’t have to worry about watering them. This is a pack of 10.

Incorporating elegant white hydrangeas

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Kimura's Cabin Faux Hydrangeas (6 Pieces)

These gorgeous white hydrangeas are in keeping with Taylor’s advice and add a chic element everywhere from the bathroom to your front porch. Simply popped in a vase, this timeless flower goes with everything. While you can always stop by your local flower shop to invest in real ones, these faux hydrangeas are a hands-off, fast way to make your home look more expensive.

Swapping out plastic decor for natural materials like wood

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DreamSky Wooden Digital Alarm Clocks

Taylor also recommends swapping in organic materials when possible. Wood is a great option, and pieces like this wooden alarm clock is a chic and functional way to incorporate an organic material. The clock features large digits for easy reading, five brightness levels, and a USB port for charging your devices. With customizable alarm volume, snooze function, and a backup battery for power outages, it’s designed for simplicity and reliability.

Utilizing luxurious materials like linen

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Foindtower Decorative Linen Fringe Throw Pillow Covers (Set of 2)

Linen is another material that’s approved by Alecia Taylor, designer at CabinetNow.com, and these linen fringe throw pillow covers are timeless and so chic. They come in eight different sizes and in 25 different colors, so you can opt for a neutral like this natural beige, or a brighter blue or deep orange.

Upping style with aesthetic throw pillow covers

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Fancy Homi Throw Pillow Covers (4-Pack)

“Adding throw pillows and blankets to every bed in your home helps to really transform the space,” Kurtis Forster, licensed real estate agent at ViewHomes explains. These velvet throw pillow covers keep things stylish with their four sophisticated, muted colors and their textured, plush corduroy surface. The monochromatic invisible zipper keeps things totally seamless, while still opening wide enough to easily fit your inserts.

Swapping in new light fixtures to modernize your space

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Espird Bathroom Vanity Light

CEO of design-build firm IntraBuild, Nick Chatzigeorgakis says, “One addition I always make is updating the lighting. Replacing old fixtures with modern, energy-efficient ones can drastically alter the perception of the space.”

Swap in this gorgeous modern vanity light and add some LED Edison light bulbs, and you’ll have an updated bathroom without a massive renovation. While the matte black finish is easy to match, it also comes in silver, gold, chrome, and a black and gold combination. One reviewer says, “Great value, good quality, and easy to install!”

Choosing thoughtful lighting options

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GE LED Vintage Night-Light

“Strategic lighting changes are a must,” says Jake McClure, licensed realtor and CEO of Burling Square Group. This chic night-light features a warm white glow and a beautiful vintage design that makes for a gorgeous touch in any space. This plugs into your outlet, has a dusk-to-dawn sensor that will turn on when the sun sets, and is a simple way to add eye-catching illumination to your space without requiring any installation.

Draping a luxe blanket for a polished touch

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BEDELITE Fleece Throw Blanket

CEO of design-build firm IntraBuild, Nick Chatzigeorgakis’s tried-and-true staging advice? "For final touches, I add high-quality textiles and fresh flowers. These elements create a sense of warmth and luxury without overwhelming the space,” he says. This luxurious throw blanket is shockingly affordable considering how luxe it looks. The cream color is a timeless neutral, but this blanket comes in so many colors to match your space. This is the sort of upgrade that looks so chic while also making your space more comfortable.

Displaying sculptural statement pieces

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FANTESTICRYAN Small Bird Statues (2 Pieces)

Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight also recommends that you “display sculptures and ceramics that resonate.” Whether you’re a bird aficionado or want charming, modern accent pieces, these small bird statues are a style-enhancing “add to cart.”

The set of two are slightly different in size for visual appeal, and have felt-lined bottoms to prevent scratching surfaces. Plus, their shiny surface also follows the advice of Ryan Fitzgerald, realtor and the owner of Raleigh Realty, who likes metallic accents to elevate a space. These achieve two design-savvy suggestions with one stone.

Adding a smart doorbell with customizable video features

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Guggre Smart Video Doorbell Camera

“I’ve started incorporating products like voice-controlled assistants, programmable thermostats, and video doorbells into the homes I work on,” says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. This video doorbell is budget-friendly and an absolute breeze to pop onto your door. It comes with two-way audio, a weather-resistant finish, night vision, and even a plug-in chime so you can hear it all over the house without checking your phone.

Voice-controlling appliances with affordable smart plugs

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Kasa Smart Plugs (2-Pack)

Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate also recommends setting up voice controls around the house, and these smart plugs are ultra-budget-friendly and barely require any setup. Simply pop one into an outlet, plug in a device, and use the app to start customizing your voice controls for lamps, phone chargers, and more.

Planning out rooms with clever reusable furniture stickers

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Mr. Pen- House Plan, Interior Design and Furniture Templates

“In one recent project, I had to swap out a client’s tiny sofa with a more appropriately sized one. The difference was night and day — the room instantly felt more grounded and comfortable,” says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. “My advice? Always measure your space and choose pieces that fit the room's scale.”

While a good measuring tape will help you size up your space, these easy-to-use architectural stencils are also super handy when planning out, measuring, and making sure all of your pieces fit your space.

Creating an easy gallery wall with this pre-styled pack

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SONGMICS Picture Frames (10-Pack)

Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate also says, “I love a good DIY project, and one of my favorites is creating a gallery wall. I’ve done this in several homes, including mine, and it’s always a hit.” This budget-friendly pack of frames is an easy way to have a cohesive gallery wall without a ton of planning because they’re designed to be styled together. Each one has a wood-like finish, and you can choose from six different colors to match your other frames and decor.

Adding elegance with an eye-catching table lamp

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LALISU Touch Control Crystal Table Lamp with Dual USB Ports

This chic crystal table lamp follows a suggestion from Ryan Fitzgerald, realtor and the owner of Raleigh Realty, who says new lighting makes “the room look fancy without costing much.” Not only does this look like a gorgeous crystal piece that you found at a vintage store, but it’s also touch-activated — at the bottom or the top — and features three levels of dimming. As a bonus, it has two USB ports to discreetly charge your devices.

Enhancing your home’s scent profile

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Pure Daily Care Essential Oil Diffuser

Mike Wall, home stager and house flipper with EZ Sell Homebuyers, says, “I focus on enhancing the ambiance with subtle details. This includes ensuring pleasant, neutral scents through candles or diffusers, adding plush towels in bathrooms, and arranging pillows and throws on sofas and beds to create a cozy yet stylish atmosphere.”

To create a uniform scent throughout your home, start with a diffuser like this one. This ones comes with a range of oils, so you can experiment and find which one you like the best. It even has four timer settings, so you can control how long it runs.

Opting for elegant monochrome pillows

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MIULEE Velvet Decorative Square Throw Pillow Cover (2-Pack)

“Oversize pillows in a monochromatic color scheme add cohesion,” notes interior designer, home stager, and licensed realtor Chenise Hinds. And these velvet throw pillow covers achieve this while also bringing a textured element to your bedroom, living room, or wherever else you choose to display them. They come tons of colors (as well as in a range of sizes), including simple neutrals and fun bolds.

Placing a floor lamp for layered lighting

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Brightech Montage LED Floor Lamp

“I often add floor and table lamps to dark corners, creating a layered lighting effect,” says Jake McClure, licensed realtor and CEO of Burling Square Group. Standard overheads add harsh, one-note lighting to a space that can create a clinical feel to your room. Instead, opt for a collection of smaller lights, like this LED floor lamp. This measures 5 feet in height, has a sturdy base, and comes with an LED bulb that will last 20,000 hours before you have to replace it.

Maintaining the yard with an easy weeding tool

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SIXCAR Weed Puller Tool

Something as simple as a little yard and garden maintenance makes your entire outdoor space look so much nicer. A simple garden weeder like this makes it easy to pull up weeds by the roots, so they don’t return. It may seem like a small thing, but harkening to licensed real estate agent Michael McGuirk’s recommendation to focus on curb appeal, you’ll make a huge impact on people’s first impressions of your home.

Investing in your entryway

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Collive Door Mat Black and White Striped Rug 27.5" x 43.3", Farmhouse Front Porch Rug Reversible Washable Front Door Mats,Hand Woven Welcome Layered Doormat Carpet for Entryway Entrance

While it can be tempting to spend all of your time on the inside of your home, Mike Wall, home stager and house flipper with EZ Sell Homebuyers says, “Don’t forget the exterior; a well-maintained yard, fresh paint, and a welcoming entryway set a positive first impression.” It can pay dividends to focus on your entry. Add a welcome mat, like this one to your front doorway. It’ll keep people from tracking dirt into your home and also offers a stylish first impression for any guests who stop by.

Lining outdoor paths with decorative lights

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Eyrosa Solar Outdoor Lights (10-Pack)

Wall’s advice to keep a well-maintained — and expensive-looking — yard can be easily achieved with outdoor illumination. This doesn’t need to require a lot of effort, either. Whether you’re lighting the driveway, designated pathways out back, or around your garden, these outdoor path lights are ideal, and recharge via the sun for easy upkeep. This is a set of 10.

Placing a mirror in your entryway

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BEAUTYPEAK 20"x30" Arch Entryway Mirror

Keeping with the advice to to focus on your entryway from Mike Wall, home stager and house flipper with EZ Sell Homebuyers, consider propping up or hanging a mirror near your front door. Not only will it make for a more finished welcome area to your home, but it’ll also give you a place to do one last outfit check before you leave the house. This arch mirror measures 20 inches by 30 inches, and has a thin black frame that’s both modern and timeless.

Use faux plants to make the space feel homey

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Der Rose Artificial Potted Plants (4-Pack)

Mike Fretto, Creative Director at Neighbor, swears by faux greenery for staging homes: “Plants elevate any room and can help really bring a specific style together or just make a home seem more livable and inviting.” He also points out, “Using fake plants is a great way to ensure that the plants never die or attract pests!”

This set of four artificial potted plants adds an instant touch of life and style —without any of the upkeep. They’re small enough for shelves, coffee tables, or window sills, and realistic enough to pass as the real deal.

Decluttering with stylish ceramic canisters

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Sweejar Kitchen Canister

“I picked up some ceramic canisters for a kitchen staging,” says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. “Functional yet stylish, they add a clean, modern touch without cluttering the counter.”

As per his advice, this ceramic canister (note this is a single) features a modern, colorful exterior as well as an airtight bamboo lid to keep things fresh. Store dry goods, kitchen gadgets, or use it as a catchall. Available in a range of colors including unique ombrés, grab a few to create an eye-catching and tidy arrangement.

Keeping things tidy with discreet storage

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Vtopmart Clear Plastic Drawer Organizers (25 Pieces)

Inspired by Bramlett’s tip to keep areas clutter-free, these drawer organizers are a simple way to make storing bits and bobs neat and tidy — without tossing everything into a jumble in the drawer. With 25 little bins of various sizes, they make it easy to find what you’re looking for and keep everything looking streamlined.

Elevate kitchens fast with chic peel-&-stick tiles

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STICKGOO Peel-and-Stick Subway Tile (10 Sheets)

According to Alex Smith, co-owner of Render3DQuick.com, peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are a staging secret weapon. “I have used them in temporary installs for visualization shoots when we need to quickly elevate a kitchen or bathroom without touching the actual structure. The newer versions do not look like cheap stickers anymore. They photograph really well and most people would not know the difference unless they touched them,” he shares.

This set is thicker than standard sticker tiles, sticks to even lightly textured walls, and covers more space per sheet. Use them to upgrade a kitchen, bathroom, or RV — no grout, no mess, and zero commitment required.

Swapping in new hardware on older cabinetry

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Franklin Brass Cabinet Pulls (10-Pack)

Michael McGuirk, licensed real estate agent, says offers this advice: “Kitchen upgrades that make a big impact are refreshing your cabinets. Instead of replacing all the cabinets you could paint or refinish them or even replace the doors. Sometimes even switching out the hardware can make a big difference and really enhance the look.” Try these cabinet pulls which are made of aluminum with a stylish brass finish. This pack of 10 likely gives you enough to outfit an entire bathroom or kitchen.

Opting for unique cabinet pulls

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Redeam Flower Brass Cabinet Knobs (4 Pieces)

Another way to implement McGuirk’s advice? Upgrade your furniture with these elegant brass flower knobs — perfect for cabinets, dressers, and drawers. Made from high-quality brass, they’re durable, corrosion-resistant, and add a luxe touch to any space, not to mention easy to install with included screws in multiple lengths. They’re a simple swap for a fresh, elevated look.

Styling your space with ceramics

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Sowlvenco Ceramic Vase

Alecia Taylor, designer at CabinetNow.com recommends turning to ceramics to create “a refined look,” in your space, and this ceramic vase is perfect for the job. It has beautiful ombré glazing and side handles that add a rustic touch. It comes in a few shape options, and multiple two-tone glazing designs as well as solid colors.

Updating lighting with sleek pendant lights

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OmiSun Plug-In Pendant Light

“I know that I have said it already, but updating the lighting with pendants over an island or under-cabinet lights can really make a world of difference,” says Michael McGuirk, licensed real estate agent. This plug-in pendant light adds vintage charm with it’s modern rustic vibe. And the 14.8-foot adjustable cord (complete with an on/off switch) makes it easy to hang anywhere, with no hardwiring required — just hang it, plug it in, and switch it on.

Enhancing corners with a modern floating shelf

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VASAGLE Floating Corner Shelf

Ryan Fitzgerald, realtor and the owner of Raleigh Realty is a fan of this cool Greenco corner shelf if you want to bring “a modern touch” to your space. “We put some art pieces and old books on them to make them look more fancy,” he adds. The five-tier unit fits flush into the corner of a room to bring a little style to an often overlooked spot. It can hold up to 11 pounds, and it has a chic zipper design that, itself, looks more like a piece of art than a shelving unit.

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