Quality furniture choices can raise home values say experts

New insights suggest that furniture selection can play a significant role in increasing the value of a home, beyond traditional renovations or structural improvements.

According to experts from IconByDesign, the presentation of a home through high-quality, strategically selected furniture may influence both the perceived and actual market value of a property.

"Furniture plays a crucial role in how a home is perceived during a valuation. The right furniture should create a seamless blend of style, function, and comfort. When it comes to furniture choices, choosing solid timber furniture adds a sense of durability and craftsmanship, signalling to potential buyers that the home is built with care and attention to detail," Nicki Light, Head of Brand and Merchandising at IconByDesign.com.au, said.

The use of well-placed and high-quality furniture can enhance the inviting and functional feel of a home, which in turn may make the property appear more luxurious. Timeless furniture choices are promoted as a way to appeal to a broader audience, enabling potential buyers to envision themselves in the space and increasing their willingness to invest.

Kristen Jackson, Pre-Sale Renovation Specialist at WealthHouse, collaborated with IconByDesign to discuss the role of furniture in home valuation.

"Furniture and décor are among the most cost-effective ways to elevate a home's valuation. A well-furnished space looks and feels significantly more expensive. However, it's not just about the furniture itself—presentation is key. Well-chosen pieces, combined with elements like fresh paint, updated lighting, and a cohesive layout, can increase both perceived and actual market value," Jackson said.

Industry professionals suggest that focusing on key living areas—such as kitchens, dining rooms, and living spaces—provides the highest return in terms of first impressions. In these areas, functional yet stylish furniture, for example, a solid timber dining table, is recommended to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Strategic staging is another consideration, with experts encouraging the thoughtful arrangement of furniture to make spaces appear larger and more adaptable. Highlighting the flexibility of a room, from entertaining guests to everyday living, may increase a property's appeal to diverse buyers.

Investing in quality, such as solid timber furniture, is advised over mass-produced alternatives, which may deteriorate quickly. According to IconByDesign, timber pieces not only withstand wear but also develop character over time, serving as a signifier of longevity and quality craftsmanship to those viewing the property.

The report cautions against following fleeting furniture trends, as it suggests trendy, mass-produced items risk dating a home and reducing its appeal. Instead, timeless designs such as Scandinavian-inspired furniture, recognised for their simplicity and elegance, are recommended for their enduring popularity with buyers.

Attention is also directed towards enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The inclusion of well-crafted outdoor furniture, such as timber dining sets, can extend usable space and raise the overall desirability of the property, a factor that is increasingly considered in property valuations.

These suggestions reflect a growing recognition within the real estate sector that even relatively minor changes, such as refreshing furniture and accessories, can impact the return homeowners see when selling their properties.