Home Stagers' Favorite Tricks To Make Homes Effing Gorgeous For Under $35

According to Dawn Drew, home staging specialist and owner of The Wow Factor in North Carolina, “The easiest way to change a look is to invest in new accent pillows — for your sofa, for your beds. Make sure the pattern of the pillows looks good from a distance because, while it may look great close up, those little details and patterns get lost in photos.” These pillow covers have a neutral colorway and a bold, geometric look that stands out from afar. And since they’re made from linen, they add an elegant touch as well.

• Available sizes: 3

“Avoid solid pillows unless they have some texture because they can read flat,” Drew counsels. Instead, you can opt for varieties like these pillow covers. They come in rich jewel tones, while their swirly, diamond-like pattern gives the eye somewhere interesting to land. And thanks to the hidden zippers, there’s no bulky hardware to disrupt the clean lines of the design.

• Available colors: 23

You can’t go wrong with these sophisticated artificial hydrangeas. “Flowers are statements!” Drew says, adding, “I use flowers for centerpieces and always go with one type of flower versus a mixed bouquet. This keeps it visually simple and elegant.” These blooms are made from faux silk with adjustable stems, so you can arrange the leafy fronds to your exact specifications.

• Available colors: 19

Lisa Kuzman, Design Director for CLK Properties in New York, recommends warm and thoughtful touches like this nightstand carafe set, which is great for making a space feel more lived in. “[It’s a] nice way to make a nightstand homey,” she explains. The carafe holds over 37 ounces and the matching cup sits on top of the neck of the bottle and serves as a cap when not in use.

• Available colors: 2

Kuzman, who notes you “can’t have enough orbs,” recommends this set of ceramic spheres. The opportunities for styling these decorative objects are endless, since they look just as refined on a statement tray as they do lined up on a mantel. They come in a classic blue and white color palette which makes them evocative of antique china.

• Available colors: 2

And if you’re orb-obsessed but crave a more earthy vibe, these faux dried moss balls have you covered. These foam and paper spheres come in a range of sizes for visual interest and are made with realistic-looking grass fragments. You can even thread rope or twine through them for hanging decor, too.

These anti-curl rug grippers are another home essential, according to Kuzman. “Make rugs look their best, especially on the corners, and ‘nail’ them down with this tape,” she says. They work a bit like double-sided tape: Simply adhere them to the underside corners of your rug and secure them in place on your flooring. Better yet, they won’t leave any sticky buildup behind when you remove them.

“Place a tray to create a grouping of items together,” Kuzman advises, and this rectangular tray is an excellent option. It boasts metallic accent handles built into the sides, which make it easy to move from surface to surface. And thanks to the faux leather surface, it looks way more expensive than it actually is.

• Available colors: 30

According to Kuzman, “Faux greenery warms a space,” so get your hands on these potted artificial plants to achieve that homey, inviting look. The trio of mini plants comes with three different varieties, creating lots of texture that makes for a more realistic look. And since the accompanying pots come in a neutral hue, they’re easy to style in a range of interiors.

• Available colors: 2

If you’re looking to restock your linens, these bath towels are an excellent and budget-friendly option. “Fresh white towels look spa-like in a bathroom,” Kuzman says, and since these towels are made from 100% cotton, they’ll feel spa-worthy, too. They’re safe to launder in the washer and dryer, and they dry quickly thanks to their enhanced absorbency.

• Available colors: 14

You’re going to want to snag these ceramic jugs, because, according to Kuzman, “Decorative groupings in threes give balance to an end table or shelf.” This set boasts a stylish but subtle color-block pattern in neutral hues and plays with varying degrees of height, which makes them visually satisfying wherever you display them. The slightly speckled finish is a nice touch, too.

• Available colors: 3

Kuzman counsels that you should consider updating the frames for your art and photos around the house, and these picture frames make for an elegant upgrade. They come in a set with several different dimensions, making it so easy to create a DIY gallery wall. Each frame features both a hook for hanging and a pullout stand for tabletop display.

• Available colors: 4

“Pretty storage solutions always make a closet look pristine and clean,” Kuzman says, and these storage bins are no exception. They come in a range of neutral hues which allows them to blend in while still looking polished. The bins boast stylish faux leather handles for enhanced maneuverability, secured in place with metallic studs. And since each one has a reinforced base, they’re sturdy, too.

• Available colors: 10

You never know when you’ll need to share something special, so grab this wooden letter board to get your message across with style. “Letter boards [are great] for a whimsical, uplifting message blast, which you can change when you want,” Kuzman explains. This highly rated model gives off a natural feel thanks to the wooden construction and comes with 118 high-contrast white letters and numbers for crafting your statements.

• Available colors: 7

Judi Kutner, senior contributor at Virtual Staging and senior realtor, says, “One of the biggest tricks that’s surprisingly effective is adopting Chinese chi energy flow, such as feng shui,” adding, “The way furniture is placed in a home impacts how people experience the space. It needs to feel open, easy to walk through, and balanced. No clutter blocking pathways, no awkward gaps. It makes a space feel natural, and people don’t even realize why it looks better — they just feel it.” If you’re not sure how to put the principles of feng shui to work on your own, Feng Shui Modern is a thoughtful and accessible explainer that will give you an overview and help you master some of the finer points. You’ll find illustrations, color palettes, and suggestions for how to incorporate the design philosophy into your own personal style.

To put the ideas of feng shui into practice — which will likely involve rearranging your space — use these furniture sliders to make it easy. The set includes eight smooth sliders that glide across carpet, making it a cinch to move bulky furniture. You’ll also get a set of soft fleece covers; stretch them over the sliders for easy sliding and protection when moving furniture across hard-surface floors.

Kutner likes the look of these sculptural ceramic vases: “They’re clean, modern, and work in any style of home. They add that finished look without adding clutter,” she explains. Since the set comes with two differently sized vases, you can play with the height and scale of your design. Fill them with fresh flowers, dried blooms, or pampas grass — the options are endless.

• Available colors: 3

“A reed diffuser with a fresh scent like clean linen changes the entire feel of a space,” Kutner says. “People always underestimate scent, but the right one makes a home feel high-end without anyone realizing why,” she adds. This particular diffuser not only smells fresh but is also easy on the eyes thanks to its glass bottle and faux blooms mixed in with the reeds. If you prefer something warmer or moodier, the brand also has options like cashmere vanilla and sandalwood rose.

• Available scents: 16

According to the IMI Design Studio Team in Arizona, you should “tuck LED puck lights under cabinets or shelves for a subtle glow that screams custom-built masterpiece.” These particular lights can be powered on with just a tap of your finger or with the included remote, which also allows you to adjust the brightness and the warmth. They come with both adhesive and screws for easy mounting as well.

“A little gold leaf goes a long way — upgrade a frame, lamp base, or even a flower pot for a custom, luxe feel,” the IMI Design Studio team says. These gold leaf sheets make custom DIYs more achievable than ever. They’re made from real 24-karat gold, and with just a little practice, you’ll be able to add a high-end glimmer to so many surfaces.

“Want privacy without ugly blinds? Frosted film makes windows look elegant and lets the sunlight in,” the IMI Design Studio team explains. This window privacy film is so easy to set up since it sticks in place with the help of a little soapy water. And thanks to the stylish, reeded design, you’ll have additional privacy and an aesthetic upgrade all in one.

This Chanel coffee table book can make quite the impression. “A single oversized coffee table book says, ‘I have my life together’ — even if you don’t,” the team at IMI Design Studio explains. It boasts tons of photos and archival drawings from throughout the brand’s storied history, making it diverting to flip through as well as an attractive finishing touch.

According to the IMI Design Studio team, “Your curb appeal starts with your address — modern house numbers instantly make a home feel expensive.” These numbers are crafted from durable, weather-resistant stainless steel and feature a trendy but timeless font. Better yet, they come with all the screws and anchors you’ll need to install them.

“Outdated brass doorknobs? Cheap-looking frames? A can of matte black spray paint is pure magic. Matte black equals instant sophistication. If it’s old and ugly, spray it black and suddenly it’s modern,” the IMI Design Studio team says. This particular spray dries in just 30 minutes and is rust resistant for enhanced durability. It’s safe to use on glass, wood, wicker, and more.

• Available colors: 9

Your low-cost upgrade isn’t complete without these flameless candles. “Warm lighting is everything — battery-powered candles let you layer ambience safely and effortlessly,” the team at IMI Design Studio explains. And they’re not just convenient, they look super realistic, too, thanks to the tinted glass jars and real wax base. They even come with a remote control so you can power them up from a distance.

• Available colors: 3

According to the Calvis Wyant team, luxury custom home builders in Arizona, “Luxury is a feeling, and the right lighting creates it. Swap harsh bulbs for soft LED lighting for a cozy, welcoming glow.” These warm LED light bulbs aren’t just inviting, they’re also energy efficient since they use just 9.5 watts. And, because they utilize a standard E26 base, they’re safe to use with a variety of fixtures.

• Available colors: 2

This scented candle is an affordable way to amp up the luxe factor in any room. “Scent is the silent storyteller of a home. A well-placed, aesthetically pleasing candle in a signature scent makes a space feel intentional and high-end,” the Calvis Wyant team explains. This particular candle, with its patterned glass jar, feels deliciously luxurious. It boasts a cotton wick and an impressive 40-hour burn time.

• Available scents: 9

According to the Calvis Wyant team, “Texture adds depth. Swap out standard pillow covers for plush velvet pillow covers in neutral or jewel tones for an elevated, designer look.” These covers boast zipper closures for a sleek, seamless look. And, because they come in dozens of colors, you’re bound to find a set that complements your decor.

• Available colors: 40

These matte black cabinet handles make for such an easy upgrade. “Hardware is the jewelry of a home. Swapping outdated handles for sleek matte black or brass instantly modernizes cabinets — an effortless facelift,” the Calvis Wyant team explains. The minimalist design of these pulls makes them feel both current and timeless all at once — and they come in both brass and black, as recommended. And, since they’re made from stainless steel, they’re durable, too.

• Available colors: 7

“Luxury on a budget? A modern, neutral-toned peel-and-stick backsplash in a kitchen or bathroom makes a world of difference without a remodel,” the Calvis Wyant team advises. This particular version features playful rounded “tiles” with a marbled finish in your choice of five colors. They boast a glossy look and can be trimmed to your exact size specifications for a customized fit.

• Available colors: 5

According to the Calvis Wyant team, “Mirrors expand light and space. A gold or black-framed mirror adds sophistication while making rooms feel brighter and more open.” With this particular mirror, the frame is constructed from matte black metal (but is also available in gold) and comes with the screws you’ll need for installation. It comes in a range of different diameters as well, so you can select the perfect size for your space.

• Available colors: 8

According to Magda Callery, a U.K.-based interior designer, “A fancy soap bottle makes guests think the whole house is spotless. No one has to know the truth.” This soap and lotion dispenser set is an easy way to display not one but two fancy bottles. Each dispenser is constructed from amber glass with a wooden accent just below the pump that perfectly matches the lid. And, since they’re labeled, you’ll never mix the two up again.

• Available colors: 5

“Heavy drapes feel like grandma’s house. Light, airy sheers equal instant elegance,” Callery explains, so grab these sheer linen curtains to get the look for yourself. They boast metallic grommets for easy hanging and come in lots of neutral and pretty pastel hues. And since they’re made from a linen blend, they’re plenty breathable as well.

• Available colors: 19

“Nothing says, ‘I have my life together’ like a big, leafy plant — especially one that never dies,” Callery notes, which makes this artificial monstera a no-brainer. It boasts, glossy dense fronds for a realistic look, along with faux moss along the soil line. And, since the accompanying pot boasts a chic ridged design, it adds style as well as a natural feel.

“Create the look of coziness by adding a textured throw to the end of your bed or sofa. Nothing says home like a snuggly blanket,” advises Rachel Wiederhold, owner of Hues and Harmony Interiors in Maryland. This knitted throw blanket boasts a geometric weave pattern with classic fringe detailing along the top and bottom edge. It’s easy to care for, too, since you can launder it in the washing machine.

• Available colors: 19

Wiederhold says, “Use a natural rattan tray on your island or coffee table and add decor to create aesthetic visual imagery.” This circular option stands out thanks to its clean lines and organic feel. It features two woven side handles and a generous diameter of nearly 12 inches. It’s versatile, too, since you can use it to both stage your decor and serve a meal.

• Available colors: 2

“Add a cute lamp to your kitchen to bring in warm, ambient lighting to showcase your countertop,” Wiederhold suggests, and this battery-operated lamp is a great choice. It features an organic palm frond design on the glass shade, giving it a slightly funky feel with a nod to vintage style. It even has a timer button to automatically power it down after a few hours to preserve the battery life.

• Available colors: 5

“Don't leave your walls naked!” Wiederhold counsels, adding, “Pop these wall prints into your frames to add drama and color in your home.” These prints come two to a set in your choice of canvas or a poster print. Their moody floral subject matter adds just the right hint of sophistication that will be right at home with a variety of decor styles.

• Available sizes: 2

“Transform your bathroom with spa vibes by adding fresh eucalyptus. You can add it in a vase on your vanity or hang it in your shower,” Wiederhold explains. This dried eucalyptus fits the bill, and, since it’s already preserved, it’s super easy to care for — no water required. In addition to the soothing smell, this bundle is great for adding a pop of low-maintenance greenery too.

“Add a new white shower curtain to complete the look,” Wiederhold says, and this fabric shower curtain is a lovely option to pair with your eucalyptus. The textured, diamond pattern gives it a vintage feel, while the tassels on the bottom hem add a fun, eclectic touch. And, since it comes with built-in grommets and 12 hooks included, setup couldn’t be easier.

• Available colors: 12

“Lighting is important,” Wiederhold notes, adding, “Be sure to maximize the lighting in your home. Add a floor lamp to create a cozy reading nook or add lighting to a dark room.” This model has a modern but classic vibe thanks to the simple design and drum shade with a linen construction.

• Available style: 16

Carissa Kristoff, a realtor at Berkshire Hathaway, says, “Floating shelves are fab, allowing you to display your books, plants, and decorations without having to consume a lot of space.” These floating shelves are a great option that marries rustic wood with industrial metal for a unique aesthetic. Each one can hold up to 40 pounds, so you can display plants, mementos, and art.

• Available styles: 3

Don’t sleep on this timeless area rug. “A simple rug instantly ties a room together while covering those mystery stains. Small changes make a big impact, your home will thank you,” Kristoff says. The rug has a classic Persian-inspired design and comes in an array of colors. It doesn’t skimp on the practical features, either, since it boasts a nonslip backing and can be cleaned in the washing machine.

• Available colors: 8

Andriy Neborak, Home Improvement Specialist and CEO at Luxury Cleaning NY, says, “A trick I adore to quickly up the ante in a space is applying a high-end wood cleaner and polish.” This expert care wood oil is a great option because it both moisturizes and can help conceal the look of wear and tear. [...] Not only does it leave your furniture and cabinets looking like new, but it also perfumes your home with a faint almond scent that feels upscale. It's an easy but transformative move that adds warmth and luster to any space,” Neborak adds. The formula features an argan scent and can be used on furniture, doorframes, and other wood surfaces.

You’re going to want to pick up this window track cleaner kit because, according to Neborak, “Clean window tracks instantly brighten your windows and freshen up your home. It is a minor investment for a major effect.” This particular kit comes with not only brushes for wiping out larger debris, but also cloths to dig deep into the crevices and deliver a sparkling clean. Better yet, the included sponges are washable and reusable, too.