People who stage homes say these cheap things impress the hell out of people

Rachel Stringer, professional real estate agent at Raleigh Realty, says, “Compact and elegant table lamps can be found for under $50 and can instantly elevate a room’s look.” She particularly likes this stylish LED table lamp, which features a very modern rectangular dual frame that makes it stand out. The inner frame can be rotated to adjust the angle of the light. It’s dimmable and has three color temperature options.

“Great for an accent wall or small nook, peel-and-stick wallpaper is affordable and easy to install. It’s an impactful way to add character to a room without a permanent commitment,” says Stringer. Use this peel-and-stick wallpaper to add personality to any room in your home without much effort. It features a leaf design with gold accents that really make it pop (and look expensive). It’s durable and stain-resistant. Plus, it’s easy to remove if you’re a renter or you change your mind.

Chicago-based realtor Debra Dobbs suggests creating an “interesting entry foyer” with vases, candlesticks, books, and a tray, all arranged on an entryway table. This vase is stylish and timeless with a subtle amber tint, and it’s iridescent, so the color changes when light hits it at different angles. It’s perfect for fresh, dried, or faux flower, so guests will be greeted with a beautiful bouquet when they enter your home.

As per Dobbs tip, adding candlesticks is another way to enhance your entry foyer. These durable, hand-carved wooden candle holders easily blend into any decor or style. They come in a set of three in different heights to add dimension, making them a great way to display real or battery-operated candles.

This decorative wooden serving tray is a great way to incorporate Dobbs advice to spruce up your foyer. It’ll tie everything together and is perfect to display knickknacks, trinkets, candles, or plants. It can also be used to ensure that your entry table stays clutter-free and organized by providing a spot for your keys, wallet, and other belongings. It features a beaded design all around that adds texture and personality.

Of course, you can’t create an interesting entry foyer like Dobbs suggested without a table. This narrow entryway table is perfect because its slim profile doesn’t take up too much space or block your entryway. It provides three tiers for storage and has two fabric drawers to tuck away clutter. The top shelf is perfect for displaying pictures, flowers, and other items. Plus, the feet can be adjusted to different heights, and it won’t scratch your floor.

“For a rug with a big impact on a tight budget, go with jute,” Dobbs says. This jute area rug is handwoven with plant fibers. Its sleek profile allows it to easily fit under furniture and not obstruct doorways. It can be used to tie a room together with a natural feel or to create separate sections in a home with an open floor plan. One shopper wrote, “I love the braided pattern and it is much softer that expected. There were no odors and the rug flattened almost immediately.”

“Update your cabinet pulls or handles. Consider polished nickel, brushed gold or matte black. Consider mixing metals for a stylish look,” Dobbs recommends. These brass cabinet handles are an easy and affordable way to update your cabinets. They’re easy to install with the included mounting screws, and they come in seven colors to go for that mixed metal look. They’re made of high-quality zinc alloy so they’re resistant to corrosion, rust, and fading.

Dobbs recommends this chunky knit blanket, calling it “ever so cozy.” It’ll look great draped over your favorite chair or couch and create a cozy, inviting ambiance. It’s made with high-quality polyester chenille that’s incredibly thick, soft, warm, and breathable. According to the brand, it won’t pill or fade due to the knitting process.

If you want to add some personality to your home, Dobbs suggests “loads of coffee table books, including a fav of mine — Call It Home: The Details That Matter.” This book has an eye-catching cover and it features over 200 beautiful images of homes the author recently designed, including her own. It’ll look great on your coffee table and serve as a conversation starter when you have guests over.

If you want to impress someone, Dobbs calls this candle one of her favs. It’s made with 100% soy wax in a variety of scentes from lavender to Christmas tree and features three pure cotton wicks for an even burn. It comes in a Spanish oak bowl that’s looks so expensive and is reusable post-candle. According to the brand, it has a 40-hour burn time and is odor-eliminating.

Dobbs specifically suggests this rattan lamp. She says, “I’m a big fan of ambient lighting in my entertaining spaces versus blasting the room with recessed lighting.” It’s designed with a hollow middle that’s egg shaped and a rattan rope wrapped around the top of the base, mixing modern style with natural elements, especially since the shade is made of pure cotton linen.

Dobbs suggests updating your cabinets by switching your cabinet pulls or handles. These cabinet knobs are highly-rated, and shoppers mentioned that they’re great quality. They’ll refresh outdated cabinets without a lot of effort or money. Since these are available in a seven finishes including one of Dobbs’ go-tos matte black, you can easily mix-and-match them.

ealtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate Eric Bramlett reminds you to “think about the exterior.” He suggests these magnetic garage door accents because “these small additions make a huge difference, especially if you have a plain garage door.” The best part? They’re magnetic, so they’re easy to install without drilling or tools and can easily be repositioned or removed. This set includes two door handles and four hinges.

Bramlett recommends these smart mini plugs because they’re “a game changer for setting the mood or turning on your lights from your phone when you’re walking into a dark room.” With an app, Alexa, or Google Home, you can control devices with your phone from anywhere. You can even set voice controls, timers, and a schedule. Their round, compact design ensures that they don’t block your second outlet, and they’re designed with surge and overload protection.

“Lighting is everything when it comes to creating an atmosphere, and you don’t need to break the bank to get it right,” says Bramlett. He recommends this LED backlight strip, saying, “for under $50, it adds this fun, high-tech element to any room.” It’s easy to install with its adhesive backing. You can change the colors, set a schedule, change the modes, and adjust the brightness with an app. It’ll look great on a wall or under your cabinet. It can also improve contrast when placed on the back of a TV or computer screen.

“I’m a big fan of faux greenery. A high-quality faux plant adds a pop of color and a sense of nature, and I’ve found that clients are impressed with how they freshen up a room without the maintenance of real plants,” says Adam Chahl, award-winning Vancouver real estate agent and founder of Vancouver Home Search. These faux eucalyptus leaves look so real, no one will be able to tell they’re fake. They’re designed with wired stems and removable leaves so you can twist and adjust them to arrange them anyway you’d like.

“Another favorite is the VELIMAX blackout window film — it adds privacy and a sleek, modern look to windows, which can make any space feel more upscale,” Chahl says. This film attaches to windows with static so there’s no need for adhesives, which makes it easy to install and remove without residue. Not only does it provide privacy, it also blocks sunlight and excess heat so your home will stay cool.

Licensed California real estate salesperson Matt Morgan says, “Replacing basic white [light switch] plates with a natural material lifts a space. In my own home, I installed rustic wood plates for an organic feel. Clients always comment on the warmth they add.” These wood light switch plates will add a natural element to your home and brighten any space. They’re made of bamboo and plant fibers. Oh, and shoppers confirm that they’re easy to install.

“With smart home tech more advanced, new outlets with built-in USB ports are ideal. They charge phones and tablets directly, no adapter needed, [and tidy] up counters,” says Morgan. This USB outlet receptacle is designed with one USB-C port, two USB-A ports, and two AC outlets so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. It features a screwless design for a sleek and seamless look. It also reduces clutter since it replaces the need for a clunky power strip.

“Adding decorative mirrors for under $50 creates an open, airy feel and reflects natural light. In a recent retail listing, we used two mirrors to make a cramped stockroom appear more spacious to potential tenants,” says Morgan. These stylish round mirrors are a great way to add personality to a boring wall and make a room feel more open and larger. They feature a bold metal frame with multiple, intersecting circles. They look like art pieces and are sure to make a statement.

Brett Johnson, licensed Colorado real estate agent and owner of New Era Home Buyers, says, “Sellers and their agents often overlook staging items for the exterior, especially at the front entrance of a home.” He recommends this tricycle planter because it “draws attention to the front entrance while adding charm and personality.” It’s made of high-quality iron that’s durable. It’s designed to stand on its own and features two pots. It can be used indoors or outdoors, and shoppers mentioned that it’s easy to assemble.

“An end table with a fabric basket as the lower compartment adds character to a boring sleeping zone and makes the sleeping zone feel aesthetically pleasing,” says Sal Dimiceli, Sr., owner/broker of Lake Geneva Area Realty. He likes this minimalist, modern end table, which features a round tabletop, U-shaped legs, and a spacious basket to tuck away clutter, making it great for bedrooms for people of all ages.

“From the coffee table to the vanity and jewelry corner of the dresser to the dropping point of the entryway console table, a marble serving tray adds luxury to any place,” Dimiceli says. This oval marble tray is made of solid marble and features gold-tone aluminum handles that are designed to look like leaves. It’s perfect to serve guests drinks or appetizers or to display candles, knickknacks, or plants.

“Rattan has taken over the home decor world,” says Dimiceli. “[This] light lampstand exudes a feeling of airiness, while the earthy materials bring in natural themes inside.” It features a rattan rope base and a linen lampshade. It’s designed with a clear 5-foot long cord that doesn’t take away from the natural, coastal-inspired design. Reviewers confirm that it’s beautiful, stylish, sturdy, and high-quality.

“Bold, decorative throw pillows with unique textures like velvet or faux fur can transform a sofa, bed, or armchair into a luxe focal point,” says licensed realtor with Sotheby's International Realty in central Texas Tiffany Shannon. This round velvet pillow is a great option if you want to add some texture or personality to your seating area or bedroom. It features a stylish pleated design with a button at the center. It comes in over a dozen colors from neutral gray to bright red to suit your style.

If velvet pillows are not your thing, faux fur pillows are another option according to Shannon to create a “focal point” in your bedroom or living room without spending a lot of money. These faux fur pillow covers will add texture and a pop of color that’ll instantly upgrade your couch, chair, or bed. They’ve garnered over 9,000 five-star ratings because they’re stylish, soft, and oh-so cozy.

“Adding framed art, whether it's abstract designs or nature-inspired prints, is an affordable way to make a statement on otherwise bare walls, while also reflecting personal style,” says Shannon. These round wooden wall art pieces are a great way to create an accent wall or a focal point in home to update a bland room. It features geometric, nature-inspired designs that’ll complement any style. They come in a set of five in two sizes to add dimension.

Shannon suggests these night-light wall plates for an easy, practical, and budget-friendly way to improve your home. They replace the need for plug-in night-lights that take up outlets. They easily snap on thanks to the patented prong design — no wires or batteries required. Each one has a dusk-to -dawn sensor, so it will automatically turn on when it’s dark and off when it detects light. By the way, these are a hit with shoppers, which is why they have over 12,000 five-star ratings.

Rebecca Hidalgo Rains, CEO and designated broker of real estate firm Integrity All Stars Realty in Phoenix, says succulents are an inexpensive way to “liven [a] room.” These mini succulent plants can be placed on a table, counter, or window sill to add a natural element to your home that will brighten any space instantly. Don’t worry, they’re so easy to take care of even if you don’t have a green thumb; they only need to be watered when their soil is dry, which is about every other week.

Rains recommends “buying a nice radio that brings the vibe of the house up.” This retro-inspired Bluetooth speaker is a great option that’ll add a focal point to an otherwise boring space. It’ll look great on a shelf or table, and it’s sure to become a conversation piece that guests will ask about since it looks like a fun flea market find but has modern technology. Although it’s small, it has an impressive sound quality and can last up to six hours on a single charge.

“Under cabinet lighting is a must for any kitchen. They are great because they help bring out your countertops or brighten the space under your bar or kitchen island,” says Rains. These wireless, battery-operated LED puck lights are easy to install with the included mounting tape or screws. Since you don’t need to plug them in, you can place them just about anywhere. They include a remote control so you can turn them on and off, set a timer, change the color temperature, and adjust the brightness without getting up.

“I also recommend buying a nice wooden mill tray to keep your salt, pepper, and olive oil. It adds a little extra style to your kitchen for very little extra cost,” says Rains. Not only will this wood mill tray make your kitchen look more upscale, it’ll also prevent your counter from getting dirty by catching spills or crumbs. It’s great for salt and pepper shakers, candles, and it can also be used as a trinket dish.

Lindsey Mahoney, licensed realtor with Danberry Realtors in Toledo, Ohio, and founder of DIY website Building Bluebird, says, “This is very simple, but investing in light bulbs that appropriately light each room in your home and have the same temperature is an easy update to create a cohesive look in your home.” This massive pack of LED light bulbs will help you create a uniform look in your home and are available in a variety of color temperatures (daylight, soft white, and bright white). Shoppers mentioned that they emit bright and clear light. They’re long-lasting and energy efficient, too.

“Painting your front door a welcoming paint color instantly adds curb appeal and is under $50,” says Mahoney. This water-based paint is designed for front doors specifically. It’s available in a bunch of bold colors from fiery red to joyful yellow that’ll make your home stand out. It’s resistant to UV and fading. Customers note that it’s easy to apply, provides good coverage, and dries quickly.

President at Black Label Design Group Aaron Alway says, “As a custom home builder, the most impactful upgrades under $50 are decorative accents like colored glass knobs.” These crystal glass cabinet knobs are available in eight colors so you can choose the right shade to match your decor. They glitter and sparkle when light hits them, so they definitely stand out compared to traditional cabinet knobs. They’ll upgrade cabinets and drawers in a snap and make your home look more impressive.

Alway says natural wood picture frames are a great way to bring in “natural elements” to give “a space warmth and visual interest.” This 12-pack of wooden picture frames comes in four sizes so you can create an accent wall or collage with dimension. They’re made of solid pine and feature plexiglass screens, so they’re durable.

“For a recent mountain retreat project, we used branch-inspired drawer pulls in a rustic metal finish for under $10 each - clients were thrilled with the organic and soothing feel they lent,” says Alway. These branch cabinet handles are unique and eye-catching, great for a study or rustic home. They’re made of durable zinc alloy so they won’t easily break and the color will not fade. Reviewers said they’re easy to install and well-made.

Alway suggests dimmable LED light bulbs. He says, “Being able to control the brightness and warmth of light instantly transforms a space.” These smart light bulbs can be controlled via an app or connected to Alexa or Google Assistant. You’ll be able to adjust the brightness, set a schedule, and turn them on and off from anywhere. According to reviewers, they’re easy to set up.

Alway recommends dimmers because they are “affordable” and “give full control.” This smart dimmer allows you to tailor your lighting — with just a click of a switch you can adjust the brightness or gently fade lighting to set the mood. It’s also compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. You can even set a timer or schedule so they’ll turn on and off or dim when you want them to every day.

Alway says natural wooden accessories have been among his favorite finds this year and that a wooden serving tray “corrals items on a countertop or entry table.” This wooden serving tray is a great way to spruce up a table, countertop, or entryway and can be used to display candles, plants, or other items. It creates a focal point and makes your home look more put-together. It has built-in handles so it’s easy to carry and raised edges to prevent items from falling off.

According to Alway, a wooden bowl can “layer in warmth and texture” into your home. This wooden bowl is hand-carved, so each one is unique. It’s perfect for your jewelry, keys, and wallet on an entryway table or dresser so you’ll keep your home organized and tidy. It can also be used to serve snacks, salads, and more.

Alway recommends a teak wood blanket ladder because “natural touches create an inviting, collected feel that impresses guests.” This farmhouse-style wooden blanket ladder has six tiers that allow you to hang multiple bath towels, throws, or quilts at once without up much space. Plus, you’ll be able to show off your stylish quilts or throws instead of tucking them away.

Owner of Your Koh Samui Villas Michael Hess says, “Swapping out harsh overhead lights for softer, ambient options like [...] chic floor lamps can instantly transform a space.” This floor lamp features three color temperature options so you can set the mood, and the lamp shade’s angle can be adjusted to direct light where you need it most. Its sleek design barely takes up any space, and it can easily fit in corners to brighten dark areas of your home.

“Good lighting not only enhances the room's mood but also highlights architectural features, making even small spaces feel more open and inviting,” says Hess. He recommends LED strip lights as another alternative to overhead lights. This LED strip light is easy to install with an adhesive backing. It’s perfect for under your cabinets to brighten your kitchen without needing to turn on a bunch of lights.