People Who Stage Homes Love These 50 Things That Seem Expensive but Are Cheap as Hell

If you’re trying to make small rooms feel more spacious, Alexis Orivri, a real estate expert and founder of Riv Buys Properties, offers a crucial tip that’s both effective and budget-friendly. “Mirrors are essential for making rooms appear larger and brighter, and when framed in gold or brass, they also add an element of glamour,” Orivri says. “A well-placed decorative mirror can act as a focal point in an entryway, living room, or above a dresser. Not only does it enhance the light in the room, but it also provides that polished, expensive look.”

This accent mirror is an ideal solution as it features a vintage-inspired frame made of lightweight resin material and a 9.8-inch reflective surface to bounce light. Available in either a gold or antique gold finish, it won’t cost you more than $30 to add style and roominess to your space.

For those with essential items stored haphazardly on their coffee or side table, Orivri recommends a better way. “A decorative tray is an essential piece for creating a well-staged, organized look in any space,” she says. “Opt for trays with metallic finishes or mirrored surfaces for an extra touch of luxury.”

This mirrored decorative tray fits the bill perfectly as it provides a chic reflective surface surrounded by a gleaming gold metal frame to contain your items. With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating, it features a nonslip felt bottom and will be sure to make your remotes, jewelry, perfume, or books look artfully placed. It’s additionally available in rose gold, smoky black, and silver.

Add a touch of functional decor to your space with this suggestion by Orivri, who tells Inverse, “Minimalism is a trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, and ceramic vases are an easy way to incorporate it into your staging.” She adds, “White ceramic vases offer a clean, modern look that can enhance any room.”

These ceramic vases come in a set of three in different sizes and shapes, with each one the perfect vessel for displaying curated floral arrangements or adding a decorative touch to the room. Designed in white, their textured material provides visual interest to your space, and their artfully created form allows them to make an impact when placed together or apart.

When it comes to subtle and budget-friendly methods for instantly improving your space, Orivri suggests lighting as “one of the easiest ways to make a space feel warm and upscale.” She offers a specific solution, saying, “Under-cabinet LED lighting adds a sleek, modern touch to kitchens and bathrooms. The soft glow they provide can brighten countertops and make the whole space feel more inviting.”

This under-cabinet LED strip features an under-the-radar design and uses simple peel-off adhesive to mount to any surface. With three AA batteries required to operate, it’s attached to a large power button that’s easy to locate.

Though this pleated velvet throw pillow might look expensive, in reality, it won’t cost you more than $25 and is a perfect way to add a splash of color and texture as Orivri recommends. “When it comes to soft furnishings, velvet is synonymous with luxury,” she tells Inverse. “Adding velvet throw pillows in deep, rich colors like navy, emerald green, or mustard can make a living room or bedroom feel more refined.”

This plush pillow comes in a round shape and features a chic center button surrounded by classic pleats that give it a vintage feel. Choose from sumptuous shades such as light yellow, lake blue, and blush to complement your existing upholstery.

It doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg to enhance your space or complement existing decor. Take Orivri’s advice of a budget-friendly faux fur throw, for example, as a way to “instantly make a room feel cozy yet elegant.” She elaborates, “Draping one over the back of a couch or the foot of a bed adds texture and a sense of comfort, while also elevating the overall look of the room.”

This faux fur throw has a high 4.6-star rating and comes in over 10 shades such as beige, green, and pink. Choose between a striped or cable knit pattern as well as from three available sizes to provide a soft, snuggle-worthy experience and give your decor a quick refresh.

Save your precious money and still get the look you want with this insider tip from Orivri who instructs, “A great trick to upgrading kitchens or bathrooms without major renovations is using peel-and-stick backsplash tiles.” This under-$35 backsplash gives you the subway tile look with realistic-looking 3-D textured vinyl providing a moisture and heat-resistant surface. Easily stick it to any smooth surface with no grout work required and choose between three color options: white, green, and black.

Small changes can reap huge rewards, which is exactly the case with these 4.7-star-rated modern cabinet pulls that feature a contemporary arched design and come in an antique brass, matte black, or satin nickel finish. Orivri shares the ingeniousness of this simple design trick, saying, “Swapping out old cabinet hardware for something more modern like gold or matte black handles can make a huge difference in kitchens and bathrooms. It’s a small change that makes a big visual impact.”

Adding plants to your space can bring a sense of vitality but it also takes work to keep greenery alive. Take the advice of Saddat Abid, senior property buyer and CEO at Property Saviour, who recommends an ingenious and effective solution. “A properly placed faux plant, from a potted fern to a fiddle leaf fig, immediately adds life into a room without any maintenance at all,” he says. “The texture and color these plants bring add a fresh, sophisticated atmosphere to any space.”

These faux potted plants are highly rated for their authentic look and zero-maintenance design. The pots are made of paper pulp which gives them a sleek concrete look and the leaves come in your choice of gray or green. Place them anywhere that could use a little life, from bookshelves to side tables to bathroom surfaces.

To create a sense of lavish comfort that won’t break the bank, Abid recommends textured throw pillows as “an inexpensive way to give a sofa or bed a little bit of luxury.” He instructs, “Choose neutral colors and add intricate patterns or velvet for some style.”

These popular throw pillow covers are made of corduroy material in a striped design that immediately adds comfy style. They come in a set of two for under $15 and are available in eight sizes to suit the pillows you already have on hand. Choose from over 35 colors such as moss green, royal blue, and blush pink.

For sophisticated window dressings, look no further than these blackout curtains recommended by Olivia Bufalini, principal interior designer at Collaborative Design Group. The “luxurious linen texture gives them a high-end feel,” Bufalini tells Inverse. “Their pleat design adds elegance, making the curtains look more stylish and sophisticated. Essentially, they help you achieve a designer look in your room without spending a lot of money.”

Made of polyester, they have a linen-like texture and work to insulate your room, blocking UV light and keeping it warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Hang them from the built-in rod pocket or use the included ring clips.

To elevate your dining table, credenza, or mantel, Bufalini suggests this matte black candle holder set to “enhance the look of any room.” She explains, “Its simple and elegant design gives a contemporary feel, making them suitable for various decor styles. Plus, they’re lightweight and easy to move around, so you can change their arrangement whenever you want to refresh your space.”

Available in a set of three in varying heights, the holders are made of metal and come in additional finishes such as pink gold, silver, and gold. Popular with over 5,000 five-star ratings, they’re designed to be used with taper candles and will quickly create a warm, inviting ambiance.

These flameless candles are recommended by Bufalini as an easy way to create ambiance. “They look just like real candles but don't have an actual flame,” she says. “This means you can enjoy the cozy glow without worrying about fire hazards.”

They come in a set of five in a pillar shape and four sizes. Place them together or separately around your home and use the included remote to easily adjust brightness, timers, and the flicker pattern. Battery-operated and made of acrylic, they come in either amber, pure white, or gray.

A little dose of freshness can work wonders for upgrading a space, according to Robert Shepherd, CEO of Peak & Home Partners. He recommends gold-rimmed glass vases as a “stylish way to display flowers or greenery, adding a hint of sophistication with their gold rims.”

This vase is designed in a trapezoid shape and is great for single stems or larger arrangements. Choose between a small or large size with its handmade construction adding singular style to any room in the house.

Enhance your space with this frameless mirror whose versatile style can work with a range of existing aesthetics and open up the room. “Mirrors are a fantastic way to enhance the perceived size and brightness of a room,” Shepherd tells Inverse. “The frameless design offers a sleek, modern look that can complement any decor style, from contemporary to minimalist.”

This mirror comes in a range of sizes and features an arched design that will add a distinct look to your space. It comes with everything you need for a seamless installation and can be mounted anywhere from your entryway to your bathroom.

Use your plants as an opportunity to provide additional style by placing them in a decorative ceramic pot that Shepherd says “can add life and color to any room.” This ceramic pot comes in two sizes and is designed in white with a beige embossed geometric pattern. An accompanying wooden plant stand provides a bit of height, offering added visual interest to your space. Plus, there’s a built-in drainage hole so you never run the risk of overwatering.

Don’t think you need to invest thousands in updating your home with luxury materials. Sometimes a faux look can serve the purpose perfectly, as Shepherd tells Inverse. “This contact paper is an easy and affordable way to give surfaces a high-end marble look,” he says. “It's self-adhesive and can be easily applied to various surfaces, offering a quick update without permanent changes.”

The contact paper can be cut to size and features a waterproof surface, making it great for use in the bathroom and kitchen. With colors ranging from beige to gray to gold, it serves as a perfect way to revamp tired furniture without spending more than $10.

Address both the fragrance and look of your space with this scented candle recommended by Shepherd. “These candles not only fill a room with a delightful aroma but also feature an elegant jar design that adds a decorative element,” he shares. “Made with soy wax, they burn cleaner and longer than traditional paraffin wax candles.”

Available in a range of sizes as well as travel tins and gift boxes, the candle comes in scents such as island coconut, lemon biscotti, and palo santo to infuse your home with a relaxing and enticing fragrance. It’s a perfect way to affordably elevate your space without adding bulky furniture or clutter.

Instead of relying on appliance clocks, take Shepherd’s advice and opt for a piece that doubles as decor without creating a distracting ticking sound. “This wall clock features a minimalist design with a sleek black finish, making it both a functional piece and a stylish decor element,” he says. “Its quiet operation ensures it doesn't disrupt the tranquility of a room.”

In addition to five sizes, it comes in 10 different frame colors such as classic black, hunter green, or light blue to match your current aesthetic. Designed with a glass lens, it’s lightweight and uses an AA battery (not included).

To organize miscellaneous items with style in mind, Shepherd recommends a gold accent side table for "functionality with a touch of glamour." This side table features a mid-century-inspired look and includes two pull-out drawers with a ribbed design. Gold legs and handles lend sophistication and a waterproof surface makes it a durable choice. Place it in the bedroom as a nightstand or next to the sofa for a place to store anything from remotes to books to devices.

Brian Rudderow, founder and CEO of HBR Colorado, suggests using the need for storage as a unique decor opportunity. “Apothecary jars are not only practical for organizing small items, but they also add a touch of elegance to any space,” he says. These apothecary jars are made of glass, come in three sizes, and feature airtight lids. They won’t stain or retain odors and lend an antique look to your bathroom or pantry for under $25.

Instead of relying on vases, sculptures, or curated knick-knacks for added style, Rudderow suggests another idea. “Books are not just for reading, they can also be used as decorative pieces in your home,” he says. “Faux books with gold accents will add a touch of sophistication to any bookshelf or coffee table.”

These decorative books are made with gorgeous linen covers in neutral tones and feature titles related to Rembrandt and Monet in chic gold lettering. Available in a set of two, they open up to reveal themselves as storage boxes to hold anything from TV remotes to tech accessories.

For a stylish yet individual look, take Rudderow’s recommendation of displaying photos as “a great way to personalize your space and make it feel more like home.” He adds, “Brass picture frames will give your photos an elegant touch and make them stand out on your walls or shelves.”

These picture frames come in a set of four and feature a gleaming brass finish made of aluminum. They’re available in 18 sizes to curate the gallery wall of your dreams and can be used with or without mats. They’re also available in black, champagne, gold, and silver.

Rudderow shares that when it comes to protecting surfaces in your home, “Marble coasters are not only functional but also add a touch of elegance to your coffee table or bar cart.” These marble coasters feature a gorgeous pattern with gold veins as a chic touch. They come in a set of six and include their very own metal holder in a gold finish. Their ceramic material is extremely absorbent so chilled or hot cups won’t stick to the surface, while a cork base keeps the coasters securely in place.

Lend a luxe feel to your home with this suggestion by Rudderow who notes, “Candles are a great way to add ambiance and warmth to your home, but the holders they come in can often be plain and boring.” He offers a solution, saying, “Gold candle holders will instantly elevate the look of your candles and make them look more expensive.”

This set of candle holders features a traditional, handcrafted design and will be sure to make your taper candles look that much more elegant. Their gold finish elevates any table and guests will be impressed thinking you spent far more than the reasonable amount you actually invested to give your table setting that extra-special flair.

Per Rudderow’s instruction, it’s entirely possible to make a room feel more opulent and more comfortable at the same time. “Nothing says luxury like a plush faux fur rug,” he says. “This accent piece will elevate any room and make it look more high-end. Place it in front of your fireplace or at the foot of your bed for a cozy and stylish addition to your home.”

This faux fur rug resembles an authentic sheepskin, yet at under $20, remains completely within reach. It features plush material that will feel amazing under your feet and comes in 12 sizes to suit your space. Choose colors ranging from neutral beiges to vivid blues to add a luxurious look that screams comfortable elegance.

Amanda New, founder and CEO of Cash For Houses Girl, recommends an easy way to quickly cultivate a put-together look that will make an instant impact. “Add a touch of elegance to your bedroom with this set of matching beige table lamps,” she says, adding, “The subtle color complements any decor.”

The lamps feature soft fabric shades in a linen-like texture that cast a warm glow at night. The base includes built-in USB-A and USB-C ports to conveniently charge your devices while the chic, modern design works with a variety of bedroom looks.

For a fresh, clean feel throughout the home, take New’s advice: “Keep your floors clean and stylish with this washable indoor doormat.” She continues, “Made from absorbent materials, this mat will trap dirt and moisture from shoes, keeping your home clean and dry. The distressed design adds a rustic charm to any entryway, making it the perfect welcoming touch for guests.”

The rug is available in four sizes to accommodate your space and comes in a range of colors from taupes to greens to reds, all in a vintage-style pattern. The low-pile nature of the rug makes it easy to clean yet doesn’t take away from its ability to effectively absorb moisture with a nonslip backing keeping it safely in place.

If you’re desiring a space filled with natural light yet still protected from prying eyes, New has the perfect solution. “Upgrade your windows with these elegant and functional pinch-pleated curtains,” she suggests. “The gray semi-sheer fabric allows natural light to filter in while providing privacy, making them perfect for any room in the house.”

Made of recycled polyester and light-filtering rayon, the curtains come in a range of sizes and additional soft colors to complement your home’s existing aesthetic. With weighted hems to create a beautiful drape, they can be hung via the built-in back tabs or ring hooks and machine-washed as an additional convenience.

This highly rated shower curtain is recommended by New who says, “The textured fabric and tassel accents add a unique touch to any bathroom, while the neutral color complements a variety of decor styles.” Available in additional versatile colors such as beige, gray, and green, the curtain cultivates a relaxed, eclectic look thanks to its chevron pattern and has 12 built-in metal grommets for easy hanging using the included hooks. In addition to being machine-washable, New adds, “This curtain is also water repellant, making it both stylish and practical.”

Create more hanging space with these wooden wall hooks that boast a minimalist design yet feature a surprisingly impressive ability to hold up to 35 pounds. As Alex Locklear, interior designer and founder of NC Cash Homebuyers, tells Inverse, wooden wall hooks “add a touch of warmth and sophistication to any living space.”

Made of beech wood, these chic hooks don’t take up a lot of space yet can hold a lot including clothing, handbags, instruments, and more. Popular with over 2,600 ratings and 4.7 stars, they come in a pack of four and include all necessary hardware.

If you’re a devout oenophile, Locklear has a budget-friendly way of taking your passion to the next level. “I love this wine aerator pourer set because it instantly elevates any dinner party or social gathering,” he says. “The sleek black design adds a touch of elegance to the wine-pouring experience, and the aerating spout helps improve the taste and smell of the wine immediately. Plus, with its no drip and no spill feature, you can say goodbye to messy spills on your tablecloth or carpet,” he adds. Two aerators come in each set for less than $20.

Transform cooking essentials into artful decor with this tip from Locklear. “I personally have these oil and vinegar dispensers in my own home, and they always receive compliments from guests,” he shares. “The sleek and modern design instantly adds a touch of luxury to any table setting or kitchen counter.”

Clearly popular with over 4,000 ratings and 4.7 stars, the dispensers are made of glass and feature two weighted pourers in a gold finish. A funnel is included for easy filling as well as 36 waterproof labels that feature a chic minimalist font.

When it comes to upgrading your bedroom on a budget, Danny Colacicco, founder and CEO of Panda Pro Home Buyers, offers an easy answer. “Your bedroom should feel like a luxurious retreat, and investing in quality bedding is key to achieving this look,” he says. “Look for soft [...] sheets in neutral colors, and top off your bed with a plush duvet or comforter,” he advises.

This sheet set is made of soft, breathable microfiber to keep your body temperate all night long. They can be used throughout the seasons and come in versatile neutral shades such as white, ice blue, and light gray to work with all kinds of existing bedding. Each set includes four pillowcases, one flat sheet, and one fitted sheet with deep pockets.

This plush comforter is the perfect accompaniment to soft sheets, as Colacicco recommends. Popular with over 10,000 ratings and 4.7 stars, it’s made of temperature-regulating materials and is filled with synthetic feathers, making it perfect for those who deal with allergies. Available in sizes ranging from twin to California king, its diamond baffling keeps the filling evenly distributed, and color options such as navy, sage, and pink save you from investing in a separate duvet.

To make an upgrade to your home, Colacicco advises looking to your floors as a place for improvement. “Layering rugs is a design trend that not only adds texture and depth to a room but also makes it look more expensive,” he says. “Choose two complementary rugs — one larger neutral rug as a base, and a smaller patterned or colorful rug on top. This creates a visually interesting look and adds dimension to your floors.”

This neutral rug fits the bill perfectly as it’s made of natural seagrass in a beige tone. It features a basketweave pattern complemented by a solid cotton border to give it structure. Choose from tons of sizes, shapes, and border colors to immediately lend texture to your space.

This colorful abstract rug is perfect for layering on top of your neutral rug, as Colacicco suggests, to lend dimension and texture. It’s offered in eight colorways, some in more vivid palettes and some in more muted tones. With lots of size and shape options available, it features a nonslip backing and is conveniently machine-washable, with faux wool fibers that won’t fade over time.

Easily make a room feel refreshed with this suggestion from Colacicco who says, “Lighting is often overlooked but it can make a huge difference in the overall look and feel of your home. Swap out old, outdated fixtures for more modern options with clean lines and interesting shapes,” he recommends.

This lighting fixture boasts a sleek design despite its reasonable price tag and will give your home mid-century vibes. Made of metal, it features a semi-flush mount with everything included for a seamless installation. Four classic Edison bulbs are attached to each rod that comes in a black, gold, silver, or bronze finish.

In addition to chic ceiling fixtures, Colacicco tells Inverse, “You can also add [...] floor lamps to create ambient lighting and add warmth to your space.” This floor lamp features a streamlined, minimalist look and includes a soft linen shade to cast warm light throughout your space. It comes with its own LED bulb that allows you to switch between three color temperatures to suit your needs.

Emphasize elegance with this tip from Colacicco who says, “Mirrors are a secret weapon when it comes to making a space look more expensive. They not only reflect light and make a room feel larger, but they can also act as statement pieces.” He recommends, “Invest in an oversized mirror with an interesting frame, such as one with intricate detailing or a sleek modern design.”

This full-length mirror features a sophisticated arch design with a thin frame that will complement any decor. It comes with all its own hardware and even has a foldable stand built into the back.

Chenise Freidus, home stager and business manager at ZFC Real Estate, offers an easy and incredibly budget-friendly way to make your home look high-end. “Throw pillow covers are one of my secret weapons when staging homes,” she tells Inverse. “These faux leather ones are perfect for adding texture and warmth to a living room or bedroom. I love mixing them with fabrics like linen or velvet to create a layered, curated look.”

Available in nine sizes, the pillow covers come in a pair and feature an invisible zipper and easy-to-clean vegan leather. Freidus adds, “The best part? They instantly elevate the room’s vibe and look way more expensive than they actually are.”

As a way to add items to your space that serve multiple purposes, Freidus suggests this diffuser set as “such a versatile piece.” She explains, “It adds a lovely scent to your home and works as a decorative accent because of the preserved flowers included with the set. I’ve used it in bathrooms, living rooms, and even entryways to create a welcoming atmosphere.”

The set is offered in over 30 scents such as clean linen, gardenia, or lavender thyme, and includes a chic glass bottle and eight cotton sticks that can be added or taken away to heighten or diminish the amount of fragrance. Freidus adds, “It’s a perfect example of a functional item that doubles as stylish decor — just what you need to give a space a polished, finished feel.”

Anna Tatsioni, lead interior designer at Decorilla, recommends these floating shelves that are “perfect for farmhouse style bedrooms or kitchens due to their rustic wood finish, which adds warmth and texture.” They come in a set of three with invisible steel brackets that allow them each to bear up to 25 pounds. Tatsioni elaborates, saying, “The shelves blend functionality with rustic charm, creating a cozy, stylish look.” The shelves are also available in white, black, and gray finishes.

For a lavish yet well-priced piece that will surely draw conversation, take Tatsioni’s insider advice who says, “I find this decorative crane figurine super elegant, and ideal for adding a touch of luxury to your home.” She continues, “The brass with a gold finish creates a refined, modern look, while the purple crystal accents add a pop of sophistication. Its sleek design and contrast between materials bring a sense of opulence to any space.”

When placed in the sun, the different materials will catch the light, creating a gleam to brighten the room and draw the eye. Choose from 12 options involving varying balletic postures and different colored crystals from purple to white to blue.

When it comes to upgrading your home, outdoor areas can benefit just as much as indoor ones. Tatsioni recommends these solar outdoor lights because they have “an expensive look due to their sleek, modern design and matte black finish, which gives them a high-end, minimalist aesthetic often seen in premium outdoor fixtures.” They come in a set of two and are IP65 waterproof so they can remain in all kinds of weather. Able to turn on automatically at night, they have two brightness settings, high or low, to offer more or less light.

Seamus Nally, CEO at TurboTenant, recommends making subtle changes that have a big impact. “You can find all kinds of light switch and outlet covers that look really expensive but aren’t!” Nally says. “These things are one of the small details in your home that you might not think much about but that can make a major difference in how expensive and put-together the space looks.”

This decorative wall plate has a near-perfect 4.8-star rating for its beautiful beaded design that looks far more pricey than its under-$10 price tag. Made of zinc alloy, it comes in four finishes (aged bronze, antique brass, satin nickel, and antique copper) and tons of different formats to suit your specific outlets and switches.

Increase daily luxury with this bath rug that comes recommended by Eric Bramlett, owner of Bramlett Real Estate. “I know a bath rug might not seem like a big deal, but you’d be amazed at how it can influence the perception of a room,” Bramlett shares. “This one is extra soft and has a thickness to it that feels way more expensive than it is. I’ve used it in both show homes and my own bathroom, and every time someone steps on it, they comment on how luxurious it feels.”

The rug comes in seven neutral shades such as gray, blue, and beige, with five sizes on offer to suit your bathroom space. The chenille material is extremely absorbent, allowing it to dry quickly after wet feet have hit the surface. Bramlett adds, “But what I really like is how practical it is — machine washable and nonslip, so it works for both form and function.”

Practical hardware for your home doesn’t have to make you wince, according to Michael Feazel, CEO and co-founder at RoofMaxx. He tells Inverse, “Decorative roof vent caps are a simple, affordable way to elevate the aesthetic of your home's exterior. Standard roof vents are often an eyesore, detracting from curb appeal. Replacing them with attractive caps transforms the look while improving functionality,” he says.

This roof vent cap is made of galvanized steel and features an anti-corrosion powder coating to withstand the elements. It allows for maximum air circulation and includes a mesh cover to prevent small animals from entering. Available in three sizes, it’s designed in a sleek black finish as a bonus.

When the rainy season is upon you, Feazel says, “Rather than relying on plain downspouts, gutter chains guide waterfall in an artistic display.” This copper gutter chain is designed in the shape of cascading flowers to gently and artistically divert the water toward the ground or a catchment system. Easy to install with a built-in hook that inserts into the gutter hole, the copper material is rustproof and will remain gleaming throughout the seasons. As Feazel says, “This elevates a home's exterior and expresses the owner's attention to detail.”

This window film creates the appearance of handcrafted stained glass in a design that features beautiful branches and flowers. But it doesn’t only prevent outside eyes from seeing inside. “While providing privacy and visual appeal, certain window films can also support energy efficiency and indoor comfort,” Feazel says. “By blocking UV rays that can fade furnishings, films help maintain a home's lively feel for longer.”

This film allows natural light in yet blocks up to 98% of UV radiation to keep your interior feeling temperate and well-preserved. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to cut to size and mount, only requiring water for a streamlined installation.