Professional Home Stagers Say These Cheap Tricks Make Your Home Seem Way More Expensive

Made from solid zinc alloy with a brushed gold finish, these knobs bring strength, shine, and vintage charm to cabinets and drawers — and for a wallet-friendly price. “It’s relatively inexpensive to change the door pulls on kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and it immediately makes a difference,” says Decode Real Estate founder and NYC real estate agent Danielle Nazinitsky. There are 10 pieces per pack, and each knob is individually wrapped with two screw lengths included for a perfect, damage-free install.

With its minimalist form and warm, inviting light, this tripod lamp not only fits right in with any interior space — it elevates it. A wood base adds an organic touch, while a neutral linen shade diffuses light beautifully. “Luxury reads as light, layers, and restraint,” says Kerrie Kelly, CEO of a namesake studio in Sacramento, California. She suggests layering multiple lamps in a single space “to create glow and shadow.”

You don’t need an expensive paint job to give your walls character. According to interior designer Nikki Chu, vinyl wallpaper with a subtle pattern — such as this floral roll we found — is a budget-friendly way to improve a home’s design and look. Just peel, stick, and smooth it into place. The adhesive is strong enough for long-term use, yet it removes cleanly without residue when you’re ready for a change. It’s also fully repositionable, making alignment and installation stress-free.

Kerrie Kelly, creative director and CEO of Kerrie Kelly Studio, says “everything instantly feels intentional” when you add textural accents, such as plaster-look vases and boucle throws. With that in mind, this fluffy fleece blanket is a cloud-soft companion for the bedroom, living room, or anywhere else you like to lounge. It also looks way more expensive than it is. Microfiber fabric is light as a feather yet warm enough to ward off drafts, and its machine washability makes it easy to care for.

Interior designer and color expert Jennifer Guerin is a fan of quality storage solutions, as they “give you tranquility knowing [items] have a set place to live in your home.” These acrylic storage containers are similar to the ones she relies on for self-described “storage woes.” The four-piece organizer set features stackable, pull-out drawers that keep makeup, skincare, medicines, and pantry goods dust-free and easy to find. Built-in handles make them easy to grab, and nonslip pads keep them steady on shelves and countertops.

Interior designer Nikki Chu says under-cabinet lighting is the kind of small but meaningful upgrade that improves a home’s functionality, and this pair of LED bars does the job without requiring an electrician. They switch on automatically when motion is detected within 10 feet, then turn off after 20 seconds of inactivity. Each has a frosted cover that diffuses light and eliminates glare, and a built-in battery lasts for up to 45 days on a full charge.

Finished in a matte navy glaze, this three-piece ceramic vase set blends coastal tones with simple, modern silhouettes. Each vase is crafted from high-quality porcelain with a soft, frosted texture and varying heights. Use them for stems, reeds, or fresh florals, or display them as standalone objects. As interior designer and color expert Jennifer Guerin notes, “Decorative details such as vases, planters with large scale plants, and a balanced color palette can easily elevate any space,” and this versatile trio does precisely that on shelves, mantles, and tables.

Need a quick way to class up your sink area? “Decant soaps into glass,” says professional interior designer and Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director Kerrie Kelly. This dispenser conveys a clean, modern, upscale look. The thick, clear glass and geometric pattern look instantly more polished than plastic packaging, while a shiny stainless steel pump resists rust. Holding 12 ounces, it’s perfect for hand soap, dish soap, or lotion and works just as well on a kitchen counter as it does in a bathroom.

Designers are embracing scalloped details again, and this darling decorative bath mat is an easy way to bring that look home. A plush microfiber pile feels luxurious underfoot, while a nonslip backing keeps it steady on wet floors. It’s machine-washable, quick-drying, and a budget-friendly way to test out a trend. Interior designer and founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors Wendy Glaister says, “As a theme, scallops are making a comeback,” noting that the motif helps everyday accents “take on a light, cheery character.”

Crafted from heavyweight velvet, these curtains provide a tailored look that complements modern, traditional, and eclectic interiors. The set includes two panels and a two-in-one header that accommodates rods, back tabs, or clip rings. Their dense weave conserves energy, provides privacy, and helps quiet outside noise, but they’re also a great way to telegraph your love of luxurious materials. Interior designer Nikki Chu says, “Luxury comes from layering textures and thoughtful details. Mixing fabrics like boucle, linen, velvet, or even hand-stitched leather instantly adds depth and warmth.”

Kerrie Kelly, Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director, says one hack for instant sophistication is to “edit surfaces” while playing with textural elements. This stone tray is an elegant, understated way to play with said textures and materials. Made of Italian travertine, it showcases distinct pores, veins, and natural patterns, making it a truly one-of-a-kind addition to your nightstand, vanity, or coffee table. Use it as a sturdy surface for jewelry, candles, perfumes, or other small essentials.

Perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, or home offices, these plug-in wall sconces introduce soft, ambient lighting to elevate any space on a dime. Principal interior designer of KTJ Design Co. Kathleen Jennison calls this pick one of her Amazon go-tos, noting they help “pull a room together without the price tag of custom pieces.” Their clean, minimalist profile blends into nearly any décor style, while cream linen shades provide a warm, diffused glow. Choose from three color temperatures to match your needs, and mount them to walls with adhesive or hardware.

Decode Real Estate founder and NYC real estate agent Danielle Nazinitsky encourages homeowners to “layer in greenery” to upgrade a space, and this houseplant assortment makes it easy to do just that. Each set includes a unique selection of beginner-friendly varieties such as peace lilies, pothos, and ferns — all designed to thrive with minimal care. “It helps soften your home and adds some natural beauty,” she explains. “Plus, they help clean the air.”

Ditch the mismatched bath sheets and instantly make your bathroom look more curated with this towel set. It includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths, all crafted from 100% combed ringspun cotton. Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio, says a textured waffle weave, like the one these have, is a fast track to boutique vibes. But they’re as functional as they are stylish, increasing surface area for quicker drying and superior absorbency.

NYC real estate agent and founder of Decode Real Estate Danielle Nazinitsky forecasts an uptick in traditional and maximalist interiors, which she says “makes a home feel unique and luxurious.” This floral rug is one way to embrace the trend. Its vibrant pattern is digitally printed on a polyester face and withstands machine washing, while a rubber nonslip backing keeps it secure on floors. Its richness is the perfect antidote to a room that needs a little warmth and soul.

Handwoven from pure cotton with leaf motifs, tassels, and harmonious color blocking, this tapestry brings striking texture to any wall. Wendy Glaister, interior designer and founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors, says, “Large-scale art, hung at the right height, makes any room feel more special and curated.” This 39-inch wide piece comes with three wooden rods that easily assemble into one oversized wall hanging or divide into two smaller pieces, and adhesive hooks are included for quick installation.

Want to give your favorite piece of art the attention it deserves? “Add rechargeable picture lights,” suggests Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director Kerrie Kelly. This aluminum model spreads light across the wall up to 65 inches, making it ideal for oversized artwork. It features three color temperatures, remote dimming, and a 360-degree ball-joint head so that you can fine-tune everything to your liking. A magnetic mount allows quick removal for charging, and a built-in rechargable battery delivers up to 13 hours per charge.

Crafted from thick, clear glass with a faceted diamond pattern, these decorative jars bring sophistication to bathrooms, bedrooms, and office desks. There are four in a set — each roomy enough for cotton swabs, lipsticks, snacks, or jewelry — and each has a fitted lid to keep dust away. Interior designer Wendy Glaister, founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors, suggests vintage crystal candy jars, but this set is just as cheap, and its matching design creates a cohesive look in your home. However you acquire them, Glaister says, “they add a lovely sparkle to your space.”

When asked about the most impactful home upgrades you can make for under $50, Jennifer Guerin, an interior designer and color expert, does not hesitate. "Paint is number one!" she exclaims. This formula by Evolve combines primer and paint for faster application and better adhesion. Color glides on smoothly with maximum coverage, and the results are a finish that’s washable yet resistant to water-related wear. It’s a dependable, budget-friendly option for achieving long-lasting color and comes in 40 shades on Amazon.

Each pillow in this pair of pillow inserts is packed with more than 2.5 pounds of premium feather down, adding a luxurious touch to sofas, beds, and accent chairs. A dual-layer cover prevents feathers from poking through, while cotton construction keeps each insert breathable and durable. You can easily swap out the pillow covers every season for an instant refresh. But Kerrie Kelly, an interior designer based in Sacramento, California, suggests pairing down pillows with a linen-blend option for accents that “read ‘boutique’ on a budget.”

Featuring orange kiku flowers, terracotta eucalyptus stems, and soft burgundy accents, this faux floral bouquet delivers a warm, welcoming energy. “We’re moving away from the 'all grey everything' aesthetic,” says Decode Real Estate founder and NYC real estate agent Danielle Nazinitsky. “Grey can make a space feel inauthentic and cold, while warm tones make it feel luxurious and inviting.” While realistic textures and rich shades make these flowers a standout for fall centerpieces, they are just as reliable for making a warm and inviting visual impact year-round.

Shift the mood of any room, at any time, with this foolproof lamp dimmer. Just plug it into an outlet, connect your lamp, and use the slide control for smooth, precise dimming. “Dimmers are non-negotiable — ambience is half the design,” says interior designer Kerrie Kelly, CEO of Kerrie Kelly Studio. Set it to bright for tasks, soft for evenings, or barely-there for bedtime. It’s a convenient, affordable way to make ordinary lamps feel more dynamic without switching bulbs.

Kerrie Kelly, creative director and CEO of Kerrie Kelly Studio, suggests keeping a tray at your entry, and this piece delivers a clean, textural touch effortlessly. Made from sturdy MDF with a smooth, splinter-free finish, it blends whitewashed wood with decorative beads for a shabby chic appeal. It’s a practical spot for out-the-door essentials or small decor on entryway consoles, counters, and coffee tables.

Kathleen Jennison, principal interior designer of KTJ Design Co. says, “Rearranging furniture for better flow makes a home feel more intentional,” and these sliders make that process damage-free and straightforward. The set includes four 5-inch sliders for carpets, plus four protective socks for hard floors, giving you a complete system that prevents scratches. Made from thick, durable plastic, they’re reusable and built for long-term performance. You’ll be grateful to have them whenever the mood for a quick room refresh strikes.

Whether you're updating a kitchen, bathroom, or a single dresser, these cabinet pulls deliver an immediate style boost. A minimalist design blends seamlessly with modern, transitional, or traditional decor, and they’re available in a variety of colors and finishes. Professional interior designer Kerrie Kelly recommends making things cohesive and seamless. “Swap builder plates and cabinet hardware for a cohesive metal finish,” she says. “Your rooms will look curated in an afternoon.”

This 100% jute rug is handmade with a tightly braided construction that holds up to daily wear while keeping a soft, natural look. Its warm, neutral tone works with nearly any decor, from modern minimalist looks to beachy or rustic styles. And as Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director Kerrie Kelly notes, a natural fiber mat at the entry brings “cleanliness, texture, and welcome in one move.” Available in multiple sizes and styles.

When it comes to corralling toys, books, and other everyday items, this trio of cotton storage baskets is a stylish choice. Each is made from thick cotton rope and features built-in braided handles for easy carrying between rooms. They’re available in three colors and look great in any space, but for interior designer and color expert Jennifer Guerin, utility is just as important as aesthetics. “Easy and quick turnarounds can impact the time you save looking for your items,” she says.

interior designer and founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors Wendy Glaister is a big believer in hanging large pieces of art in your home (and doing so at the right height), and this picture-hanging kit makes the job easier. Using a patented magnetic key system, it marks nail holes with total accuracy. A built-in level ensures everything stays straight, while a hardware kit keeps essentials organized. Glaister advises, “If you're hanging it above a sofa, leave only about 4-5 inches above the back of wall space...art hung too high looks out of scale.”

If you want to upgrade your bathroom on a dime, Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director Kerrie Kelly suggests using “hotel-weight” shower curtains for maximum impact — and this waffle weave model fits the bill. It’s made of machine-washable polyester but looks like cotton, and it hangs beautifully with a weighted hem for a clean, tailored effect. The metal grommets are rust-resistant, the curtain is water repellent, and 12 hooks are included for quick installation. Available in multiple sizes and colors.

If you want rooms to feel cozy and expensive rather than clinical, start with the right bulbs. Professional interior designer Kerrie Kelly suggests using warm 2700K bulbs — such as this LED model — to “soften overheads.” They come six per pack and provide a relaxed atmosphere ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Adjustable brightness is flicker-free, and one bulb uses only 9 watts, making it an energy-saving alternative to standard 60-watt models.

With a slim build and simple ball finials, this curtain rod creates a timeless, finished look in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. However, how you hang it is just as important as its design. “Raise curtain rods to the ceiling line,” instructs Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio. Windows will look elongated, ceilings will look taller, and the space will suddenly feel a little more luxe. Hardware is included, and it’s available in multiple finishes and lengths.

“Kitchens demand function and beauty, so I have learned over the years to create ‘zones’ that fit the interests of my clients,” says professional designer Wendy Glaister, founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors. One example she mentions is a dedicated coffee station — a spot where this organizer would fit in effortlessly. Made with a metal frame and wooden shelves, it’s a clean, intentional setup for mugs, coffee beans, tools, and more. Fixed hooks hold cups securely, while a two-tier layout maximizes vertical space in compact kitchens.

Danielle Nazinitsky, a New York City realtor and founder of Decode Real Estate, raves that Amazon has “incredible options for all different styles,” and this pair of decorative pillow covers is the perfect example. Combining multi-textured stitching, woven rope accents, and hand-tied tassels, they lend a cozy, high-end look for an affordable price. Each has a hidden zipper to make swapping inserts easy, and the neutral palette elevates any room. They can also be machine-washed on a gentle cycle for easy care.

Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio, classifies thin puck lights as “small pieces” with a “high payoff,” making this trio a great option. They offer 12 RGB colors, three white temperatures, two dynamic modes, and a remote control option. A rechargeable battery delivers up to eight hours at full brightness or weeks in auto mode, and a three-in-one charging cable powers three lights from a single outlet. Install them magnetically, with adhesive plates, or by a built-in hanging hook.

Interior designer and color expert Jennifer Guerin believes a balanced color palette is essential to successful design, and recommends this Pantone history book as a top resource. The book maps the evolution of 20th century color with precision and cultural insight. Featuring exact Pantone matches, curated palettes, and iconic design references, it’s an inspiration for any project that involves coordinating colors. (It also looks amazing just sitting on your coffee table.)

“Some of the best high-impact, low-budget upgrades include updating bathroom accessories,” says interior designer Nikki Chu. With her advice in mind, this matte hardware set is an excellent choice for anyone who likes a clean, contemporary look. Made of stainless steel, this five-piece set includes a towel bar, towel ring, toilet paper holder, and two hooks — perfect for organizing towels, robes, and accessories without clutter. Concealed mounting hardware creates a seamless look, and hardware is included for quick and stress-free installation.

Interior designer and founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors Wendy Glaister encourages homeowners to “combine purposes to maximize the beauty of your rooms.” For instance, she recommends you “merge your fitness space with your meditation space…bring in essential oils that invigorate and calm,” noting that multi-purpose items help maximize beauty and function. This salt lamp diffuser warms natural Himalayan crystals while releasing a fragrant mist, surrounding your space with soft light and restorative aromas. The simulated flame effect adds ambiance, and the timer and auto-shutoff ensure safe, peaceful use.

Crafted from heavy-gauge metal with an electroplated silver finish, this picture frame features a detailed bamboo design that suits a wide range of interior styles, from clean and coastal to wild and eclectic. The real glass front and soft black velvet backing elevate its quality, while a built-in easel and hooks allow both tabletop and wall display. “This frame is a great size…not too big and not too small,” says Wendy Glaister, interior designer and founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors. “The bamboo texture is a classic one and will never go out of style.”

Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director Kerrie Kelly encourages you to “introduce one textural moment” to give rooms an instant glow-up, and this handmade vase is a perfect way to experiment with unusual finishes. Made of 100% ceramic, it features a rough, tactile surface and an earthy, minimalist vibe that resembles antique plaster. Fill it with dried flowers for a dramatic arrangement, or display it on its own for a rustic touch that adds warmth to any space.

Made from Spanish oak, this hand-carved decorative bowl is a one-of-a-kind object boasting its own unique pattern of knots and grains. “Bringing in natural elements like oak, walnut, stone, or driftwood helps soften a space and make it feel high-end,” says interior designer Nikki Chu. A sturdy base and a depth of up to 2 inches make it a versatile accessory in any room. Use it to corral keys, as a potpourri vessel, or as a base for your favorite candle.

CEO and creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio Kerrie Kelly says to “swap yellowed switch plates,” and this set of covers makes the upgrade effortless. Made from sturdy, corrosion-resistant metal, their aged bronze finish has a warm, vintage-meets-modern vibe that pairs beautifully with lighting and hardware. Installation is beginner-friendly, and they boast an impressive 4.8-star rating on Amazon. The set includes four plates and color-matched screws for a clean, cohesive result.

Interior and fashion designer Marcia Sherrill suggests using black paint on baseboards, saying, “It adds an Insta-Posh cloud where the rooms float.” This all-in-one paint and primer is a dramatic upgrade for walls, ceilings, trim, cabinets, and even outdoor surfaces. The highly pigmented formula delivers impressive coverage in one coat and comes in 12 bold colors and three finishes (matte, satin, and gloss) to match the needs of your project. Durable enough for wood, laminate, metal, concrete, masonry, and glass, it’s also water-based and low-VOC for cleaner indoor air.

Interior and fashion designer Marica Sherrill of Sherrill & Bros. is a huge fan of the budget-friendly chandeliers on Amazon, which she says “scream elegance” and provide “all out glamour.” This compact, flush-mount model is an easy way to add drama to small spaces — think dining nooks, closets, and hallways. Made from polished stainless steel and radiant glass crystals, it’s compatible with standard or dimmable E26 bulbs, providing flexible lighting for different moods. “Don't be shy,” insists Sherrill. “Go big or go home.”

This bird print blends vintage artwork with modern craftsmanship, using thick canvas and a sturdy MDF backing for a polished, gallery-ready finish. The imagery brings personality to bedrooms, living rooms, or any other space that needs a pop of visual interest, and invisible nails make hanging quick and damage-free. As interior designer and color expert Jennifer Guerin says, “adding art that you love” is the next best thing to a paint job when you want to upgrade a space.

This peel-and-stick vinyl wallpaper is a charming, cheap, and non-committal way to take a break from minimalist interiors, which Decode Real Estate founder and New York City realtor Danielle Nazinitsky describes as “stark and uncomfortable.” An intricate pattern with flowers, leaves, and birds adds a luxurious touch to walls, while a grid-lined backing makes the wallpaper easy to cut and apply. In one afternoon, your space will feel richer and more inviting.

Principal interior designer of KTJ Design Co. Kathleen Jennison believes small details like lampshades can “add personality without creating visual noise.” With its graceful silhouette and scalloped trim, this versatile lampshade adds texture and warmth to modern, farmhouse, mid-century, and traditional interiors alike. A fan-shaped design helps keep dust away from the bulb, while a solid white color beautifully diffuses light. Compatible with harp-supported lamps, it installs quickly and folds flat for easy storage whenever you swap it out.

According to interior designer Jennifer Guerin, you don’t have to worry about the faux nature of this olive tree. She notes that you artificial or real plants can “bring life into the space.” Designed for a natural look, this showstopper stands 5 feet tall and features a sturdy metal-supported trunk with flexible branches you can shape to your liking. A matte white planter enhances its elegant silhouette, and it instantly adds a Mediterranean vibe to living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways.

Placed in an entryway, on a patio, or styled beside a sofa, this planter instantly adds a sleek, contemporary element to your space — and one is all you need to make a big impact. Kerrie Kelly Studio CEO & creative director Kerrie Kelly says, “Use one oversized plant; scale and sightlines do more than any knickknack.” It’s handmade from a reinforced concrete and fiberglass blend that’s lighter than traditional concrete, so it’s easy to handle, and it comes with a built-in draining hole to prevent overwatering.

When it comes to displaying art or family photos, this frame set helps you create a clean, thoughtfully curated gallery wall. “Frame art with consistent mats,” says interior designer Kerrie Kelly of Kerrie Kelly Studio. Each set includes seven MDF frames in three sizes with coordinating mats for a cohesive look. High-transparency glass with smoothed edges protects your pics, and every frame can hang vertically or horizontally or stand upright with a built-in easel.

New York City real estate agent Danielle Nazinitsky, founder of Decode Real Estate, compares good lighting to jewelry that adds excitement to an outfit — and this sputnik chandelier does precisely that. Designed with six metal arms and a warm gold finish, it serves as both sculptural decor and lighting in one. Pre-wired arms make installation simple, and its E26 bases support 60W LED or halogen bulbs. Nazinitsky adds, “Updating light fixtures makes a space feel fresh and immediately less dated.”