We Gave a Professional Home Stager $50 — Here’s What He Bought on Amazon

Written by

Megan Johnson
Megan Johnson
Megan Johnson is a reporter in Boston. She got her start at the Boston Herald, where commenters would leave sweet messages like “Megan Johnson is just awful.” Now, she's a contributor to publications like People Magazine, Trulia and Architectural Digest.
published Aug 1, 2023
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Credit: Sylvie Li

Real estate agents may “always be closing,” but it’s with the help of home stagers that they actually make it to closing day. While preparing a property for sale or rent, stagers are always pulling from their inventory to create a space that allows prospective buyers and renters to imagine themselves living there. But in between listings, they’re constantly on the hunt for new stuff that will have people eager to put in an offer. 

I asked Boston-based stylist and stager Sean William Donovan of Sean William Styling to head to Amazon and choose what he would drop $50 on to turn a typical spot into a stylish pad in no time. Read on to see what Donovan chose from the online retailer to make sure a property scores serious interest in listing photos and at open houses. 

“It’s time to clean up your act — and kitchen — by saying ‘goodbye’ to all of those mismatched pint glasses you’ve collected over the years. These simple yet useful water glasses are perfect to dress up any kitchen or bar with open shelving or glass front cabinets. While you might not have those bar-branded pint glasses [on display] anymore, the fuzzy late-night memories will last forever.”

“When it comes to staging, faux is sometimes the way to go. Add this fur seat cover to any wooden, acrylic, or otherwise stiff-looking chair or sofa for an added layer of luxury. Spa bathroom? Toss one of these beauties next to a free-standing bathtub or in front of the vanity.”

“Pillows are the easiest way to add texture, color, or interest to any space — whether for your sofa, side chair, or bed, don’t hesitate to mix and match pillow sizes and styles for a custom look. Snag these pillow covers and then a feather filler of your choice (ideally two inches larger than the pillow case) for a custom look, and don’t hesitate to change them out seasonally. I love to have two matching pillows on a sofa with a third that doesn’t match, but coordinates.”