8 Things You Can Do Today to Make Your Home Feel More Expensive

Making your home feel high-end doesn’t have to mean knocking down walls or breaking this month's budget. Sometimes, it’s the little things that hold your space back from looking its best. Here are 8 staging-approved swaps that can instantly elevate your home—and make your friends and family think you have your home together.

1. Rugs That Are Too Small - A properly sized rug should extend under at least the front legs of your sofa and chairs and around 12” from the walls. Going bigger will make the room feel more grounded, cohesive and put together. 

2. Retire the Threadbare Towels - If your bathroom towels look like they’v

e survived a decade of teenage sports seasons, it’s time to upgrade. A fresh set of matching towels (bonus points for white or neutral) instantly makes a space feel like a spa instead of a locker room.

3. Dead Plants - We love greenery, but if your plant has given up on life, let it go. A dead leaf fiddle-leaf fig doesn’t say “elegant”—it says “I’m overwhelmed.” Swap it out for a healthy houseplant or even a realistic faux version. There are some great options out there! 

4. Plastic Picture Frames - Nothing dates a space faster than cheap plastic frames in mismatched finishes. Invest in a few simple, quality frames in the same tone (black, wood, or brass are classics). Your photos—and your room—will thank you.

5. Word Art Everywhere - Guests don’t need a sign to remind us to “Live, Laugh, Love.” or where the pantry and laundry room are. Let your space tell the story instead of directing your guests through your home. 

6. Vertical Blinds - If you can swap vertical blinds out for drapes, or roman shades (even simple roller shades) your windows will look bigger, cleaner, and far more up-to-date. Quick Tip: Drapes create the illusion that ceilings are higher when they are hung close to the ceiling and kissing the floor! 

7. Sad Pillow Inserts - If your throw pillows look like pancakes, the inserts are too small. For a luxe, full look, your inserts should be at least 2 inches larger than the pillow cover. For example, use a 22" insert in a 20" cover. It’s a small tweak with a huge visual payoff and the pillows will need to be fluffed less often! 

8. Giant Family Portraits - Save the family portraits for small frames on consoles, sides tables or shelving and leave your walls for artwork. 

Small Changes Make a Big Impact

Staging is about showing a lifestyle buyers want to step into. Even if you’re not selling, these easy changes can make your space feel fresher, more intentional, and a whole lot more expensive.