We Gave a Home Stager $50 for Accessories — Here’s What She Bought at HomeGoods

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 9, 2023
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Bright living room with beige armchair, wicker chair, TV on wooden stand, and large windows with bamboo shades.

They might not get the same level of glory that real estate agents get after a sale, but home stagers are a vital component of the selling process. From making subtle tweaks that enhance a dreary bedroom, to clearing out an overstuffed condo, stagers are often the wizards behind the Oz that is real estate. They always have their eyes peeled for unique pieces of decor that can quickly adapt from space to space. I turned to Jess Harrington, owner and founder of JessFinessed Home Staging & Design, and asked her how she’d spend $50 for her home staging business at HomeGoods. She reported back with what home decor pieces and accessories she’d purchase to take a property from “for sale” to “sold.” Take a look at what the stager extraordinaire hand-picked from the (virtual) aisles of the popular retailer to add that little extra something to a home.

Eucalyptus Bouquet
$17

“We've been tying these to shower heads lately as a way to bring life and some whimsy — especially to new-construction homes,” says Harrington. “Sometimes we buy fresh eucalyptus, but it will eventually dry out. Still, it smells heavenly."

$17 at HomeGoods
Cotton Canvas Pillows
$30$22

“While there's nothing dazzling about these basic pillows, they're $11 each and are filled with a down alternative, so they are worthy of a chop for that expensive heavy pillow look,” she says. “Pro tip: Always cruise the clearance section for down or down alternative pillows. Even if the cover is seasonal, it's easy to switch out and the price is unbeatable for the insert alone.”

$22 at HomeGoods
Faux Leather Jewelry Tray With Lid
$10

“Decorative boxes of all types are an amazing asset to our collection. This piece is versatile enough to be styled on a coffee table, nightstand, dresser, or bookcase. I love that the leather is a different material than any of the surfaces I'd layer this on.”

$10 at HomeGoods

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