Skip to content
Layered welcome mats
Interior Design Practice

The 7 Pieces of Furniture (& Surprising Book) Real Estate Experts Swear by for Boosting a Home's Value

Candace Davison2 min read

Introduction

Whether you're thinking about putting your home on the market or launching your own house-flipping business, one thing's for sure: The way you present your home to potential buyers matters. Real estate agents and home stagers see firsthand what makes people's eyes light up and what makes potential buyers leave quickly.

Pro Tips for Staging:

If staging your home, declutter as much as possible—even moving items into storage. When staging an empty space on a budget, focus on the master bedroom and living room. "Those are the spaces people pay the most attention to—especially if it's an open concept kitchen and living room—because it's where they spend the most time," per real estate expert guidance.

1. A LAYERED WELCOME MAT

Layered welcome mats—one larger, patterned option under a more personalized pick—offer an affordable way to make a strong first impression and boost curb appeal.

2. UPDATED PORCH LIGHTS

Swapping out porch lights is "one of the cheapest and easiest updates you can do when selling." When shopping, look for a style that's one-fifth the height and width of the doorway for proper scale.

Updated porch lights

3. THE RIGHT-SIZED RUG

Smaller rugs can make rooms appear dinkier than they are. Your rug should be large enough that the front legs of the sofa and chairs fit under it.

4. A CONTRASTING SOFA

When staging living rooms, a rug and sofa are essential, along with a coffee table and floor lamp. Choose a lighter sofa to provide contrast against darker floors. Light gray or cream-colored options work well.

Contrasting sofa

5. AN INEXPENSIVE-YET-CHIC SIDE TABLE

An affordable tray table serves multiple purposes—as a side table, paired nightstands beside a bed, or positioned in front of the sofa as a makeshift coffee table.

6. A LUXE HEADBOARD

Tufted headboards generate more buyer interest than rustic, wooden styles. They make a statement without requiring extensive additional décor. Higher beds are perceived as more luxurious.

Luxe headboard

7. 'TOM FORD' BY TOM FORD

This designer book appears on console and coffee tables throughout home listings. It fits various aesthetics, adds height to table displays, and provides style inspiration.

8. A SLEEK DESK

Rather than a guest bedroom, create a home office space. "Most people can visualize where the bed will go," so prioritize a functional workspace instead. Home offices appeal to modern buyers seeking lifestyle-conducive environments.

Sleek desk

Tags

furnitureinterior design

Start Your Design Journey

Inspired to pursue interior design? Explore our accredited programs and take the first step toward a creative career.