First impressions can make or break a property sale, with potential buyers forming crucial decisions within minutes of entering a home.
While fresh flowers and neutral furnishings are well-known staging essentials, estate agents have identified five unexpected items that can significantly boost a property’s appeal.
These carefully selected elements go beyond basic aesthetics, helping create spaces where buyers can envision their future lives.
In today’s competitive property market, sellers need more than just attractive interiors – they need to forge emotional connections with potential buyers. “The psychology of home staging is incredibly powerful,” explains Kesha Foss-Smith, regional director at John D Wood & Co.
Cookbooks in your kitchen can appeal to potential buyers
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“Since the emotional connection is most often what seals the deal for a buyer on a particular property, these specifically chosen items help to add value for that emotional connection. The buyer will feel a sense of being ‘at home’ long before they have even officially signed the papers.
“These details aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about creating a story for your home. Sellers who incorporate these ideas often find that their properties not only attract more interest but also secure higher offers.”
Cookbooks: Creating culinary inspiration
A strategically placed cookbook in the kitchen can transform the space into a hub of culinary creativity and social gatherings, experts explained.
By selecting an attractive cookbook and displaying it open on an appealing recipe, sellers can help buyers envision themselves cooking and entertaining in their potential new home.
This simple addition speaks to both aspirational and attainable lifestyle goals, making the kitchen feel like a place where future memories will be made.
Throw blankets: Adding cosy comfort
A large, luxurious throw blanket can instantly transform a living room’s atmosphere.
Draped over a sofa’s armrest or folded at the foot of a lounge chair, a soft throw in faux cashmere or chunky knit creates an inviting tactile element. The key is selecting neutral or complementary colours that enhance the room’s existing palette.
This thoughtful addition helps potential buyers imagine themselves unwinding after a long day, settled in their new home with a book and complete comfort, according to the experts.
Statement mirrors: Maximising space
A large, stylish mirror can dramatically transform the perception of smaller rooms. The key is selecting a mirror with a frame that suits the room’s style – whether it’s a traditional gold design or modern geometric shape.
Positioning is crucial, with mirrors best placed to reflect natural light from windows or highlight attractive room features like artwork or plants.
This strategic placement can brighten dark spaces and create the illusion of a larger area, turning forgotten corners like hallways or small bedrooms into inviting spaces.
Decorative trays: Creating elegant ambience
A thoughtfully arranged decorative tray can elevate living and dining spaces with sophisticated charm.
The ideal arrangement combines a few carefully chosen books, a scented candle, and small homely touches like fresh flowers or greenery.
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Consider luxury towels
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This curated display adds an air of elegance while creating a sense of calm throughout the space, according to the estate agents.
The subtle fragrance from a scented candle enhances the overall atmosphere, making the room feel more welcoming and considered.
These simple elements work together to create an inviting tableau that helps potential buyers connect with the space.
Luxury towels: Elevating the bathroom
High-quality towels in neutral tones can transform an ordinary bathroom into a spa-like retreat. Plush towels in shades of ivory, light grey, or taupe should be neatly folded or rolled and displayed on racks, shelves, or in decorative baskets.
The presentation can be enhanced with a decorative tray featuring a scented candle or artisanal soap.
These carefully chosen details help elevate the bathroom beyond its functional purpose, creating a space that speaks to relaxation and self-care.