You’ve contemplated for a long time, consulted family and friends, and now you’ve decided to put your home on the market. Congratulations, it’s a big step. But how can you make sure your home’s value is fully appreciated? And could you even... increase it?

Here comes good design. You thought it was just visuals, but no, interior designs can also directly influence how buyers feel about your space. Design your home to look better, function efficiently, and communicate quality, and you’ll improve your home resale value immediately. 

And don’t worry, we’re not urging you to do a full renovation. You can see real return on your home investment with small, thoughtful upgrades here and there. 

Set the Stage with a Memorable First Impression

A buyer's opinion is formed in seconds. And the wheels begin turning at the curb. Set the right tone with a beautiful, well-maintained entryway. We recommend you create a seamless transition from exterior to interior. Something as simple as matching your outdoor palette with your hallway colour or repeating some design motif inside. 

And check your front door. It might need a fresh coat of paint or hardware, or maybe even a whole repair with something a little bit more modern. We want to welcome people inside with style, with something that suggests the elegant hallway that will follow. 

And it's best if it follows with some statement lighting, quirky wall hooks, and, why not, a mirror to add a bit of charm?

Design a Kitchen That Sells Itself

Right, kitchens are one of the most value-driven rooms in a home. Design it well and don’t worry about trends or such things. Focus on it being timeless and clean with nothing that needs major repairs. Designers encourage neutral or warm colour palettes to create an inviting, homey atmosphere they’d love.

To increase home value, splurge on elements that have the most visual and practical impact, like durable countertops, quirky kitchen wall art, good lighting, and upgraded appliances. And if you want to go the extra mile, splash a coat of paint colour on the cabinet handles.  The aim is to present a kitchen that is cared for and remind buyers of a cosy childhood memory.

Turn Your Bathroom Into a Spa Sanctuary

Another room a buyer will check out thoroughly is the bathroom. Make sure everything works properly, but take it further by making the space feel luxurious and calming. Use spa-like design elements: floating vanities, backlit mirrors, matte black fixtures, stylish bathroom art, and (if you can) beautiful statement tiles. It’s that quiet indulgence we’re after. 

Layered lighting is also your friend here. It will make a vanity set look like magic. 

Use Colour to Evoke Emotion and Connection

Colours can immensely affect how a place feels and how you make potential buyers feel when they enter it. One of the ultimate home design tips is to use colour psychology to create moods. For example, blues and greens will evoke a more calming atmosphere, warm neutrals will make your buyers feel more welcomed, and with soft whites, you’ll present clarity and light.

And to get the most out of the emotional charge of a place, consider soft greys (yes, greys) and off-whites in living areas, blue and sage in bedrooms, and warm taupes and creamy tones in kitchens. Everyone who enters will feel an emotional connection to the place as well as the comfort, ease, and all the possibilities of your home. 

Add Value Through Multi-Functional Spaces

No one will want to buy a cluttered space or one that feels too small with not enough storage solutions. That’s why designers often recommend you use built-in storage to streamline interiors and increase the functionality and the value of the house. Alcove shelvings, under-stair cupboards, fitted wardrobes and even benches with hidden compartments are all great ways to boost home value. 

Upgrade to Beautiful and Practical Flooring

Buyers will also look down at one of the largest surface areas in your home and one that can very easily elevate or drag down your property’s value: the flooring. A smart home upgrade will be to use the same or at least similar flooring throughout the main living areas of your home. This way, you get cohesion, high-end feel and continuity throughout the space. 

Best options: engineered wood or quality laminate, or even large-format tiles. All are popular choices for their durability and visual impact. Do avoid dated carpets and mismatched finishes between rooms. And a hidden advantage? Continuous flooring will make a space feel more expansive.

Create a Statement Worth Buying

What kind of home will stick in the mind of a potential buyer? One that tells a story through one or two “moments”. Could be the cosy reading nook in your living room, a chic home office, or something as small as a beautifully styled shelf.

But the key to success is to build a home with character without any of the chaos. Add some personality through soft, well-chosen canvas art, texture and unique pieces you’ve collected throughout your life. Yet, don’t overdo it. We don’t want any clutter. Just spark the imagination while still allowing buyers to see themselves living there.

Home Improvement Tips that Pay Off

What makes a design great and valuable? Making it liveable, emotionally charged, and full of thoughtful choices and strategic updates. Use a clear design visual, and you’ll transform your space into one that truly resonates with buyers. 

Start small, start with one room and see where your vision takes you.