10 Design Trends That Scream ‘Cheap’ to Real Estate Agents (And What to Do Instead)

1. Overuse of Laminate Flooring

While laminate flooring offers affordability, real estate agents often spot its shortcomings immediately. Low-quality laminate that tries to mimic wood usually looks artificial and signals obvious cost-cutting to buyers. Instead, consider engineered hardwood or high-quality vinyl planks for a more convincing and durable finish. These options provide the appeal of real wood without breaking the bank—and they’re far more likely to impress both agents and buyers alike.
Learn more about flooring trends

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2. Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings instantly date a home and can make spaces feel neglected or lower in value. Originally used to hide imperfections, these textured finishes are now seen as shortcuts that signal cheap construction. Real estate agents often recommend removing popcorn texture in favor of smooth drywall finishes or subtle, modern textures. This simple update creates a cleaner, more contemporary look and reassures buyers about your attention to detail.

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3. Wire Shelving in Closets

Wire shelving in closets is a telltale sign of a builder-grade, quick-fix approach. These shelves often look temporary and flimsy, making buyers question the home’s overall quality and storage solutions.
For a more polished and valuable feel, opt for custom wood or melamine closet systems. These upgrades offer sturdier storage, a luxe appearance, and a better impression during showings.
Discover more closet organization ideas

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4. Faux Granite Contact Paper Countertops

Applying peel-and-stick granite contact paper to countertops might seem like a quick upgrade, but the effect is often unconvincing and wears down rapidly. Real estate agents can easily spot these shortcuts, and buyers tend to associate them with low-quality renovations.
Instead, consider budget-friendly yet durable options such as solid surface or butcher block countertops. These materials offer lasting beauty and a more genuine feel without the high price of natural stone.
See more affordable countertop ideas

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5. Plastic Accordion Closet Doors

Go green with accordion door — A stylish closet features modern accordion doors with a rustic barn door finish, blending charm and functionality. | Photo by accordion-doors.com

Plastic accordion closet doors are notorious for making spaces feel less refined and more temporary. Their flimsy construction and dated appearance immediately signal a cost-saving measure to real estate agents and buyers alike. For a more sophisticated look, replace them with sliding barn doors or paneled bi-fold doors. These alternatives add style and substance, instantly elevating the room’s appeal and overall value. Discover stylish closet door ideas

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6. Builder-Grade Light Fixtures

Builder-grade light fixtures are instantly recognizable for their basic, mass-produced look. These generic pieces do little to enhance a room’s character and can make even thoughtfully designed spaces feel uninspired. Instead, swap them out for statement lighting or designer-inspired fixtures. Unique pendants, sconces, or chandeliers create a focal point and show buyers that you’ve invested in quality details.
Read about the latest lighting trends

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7. Cheap Mini Blinds

Vinyl mini blinds are a common sight in rentals and older homes, but their flimsy build and dated style can drag down a room’s appearance. They’re also prone to bending and breaking, which signals neglect to discerning buyers.
For a more inviting upgrade, consider woven wood shades or fabric drapes. These alternatives add warmth, texture, and a custom look that elevates your windows and the overall feel of your space.
Explore window treatment ideas

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8. Stick-On Wall Decals as Art

While stick-on wall decals can be fun and easy to apply, they often come across as juvenile or give a space a temporary, unprofessional vibe. Real estate agents notice when wall decor lacks permanence and polish, which can detract from your home’s perceived value.
Instead, opt for framed prints or a thoughtfully arranged gallery wall to add personality and sophistication. These choices look intentional and elevate your interiors.
Find wall art inspiration

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9. Unpainted Builder-Grade Trim

Unpainted builder-grade trim can instantly make a home feel unfinished or neglected. This basic, often narrow trim is a clear sign of minimal investment and lacks the character that buyers crave.
To boost your home’s appeal, paint existing trim in a crisp, clean hue or upgrade to wider, more detailed moldings. These small enhancements give rooms a polished, high-end look that real estate agents and buyers both appreciate.
Explore trim style ideas

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10. Overly Themed Rooms

Overly themed rooms—like a nautical bathroom or a sports-themed bedroom—can feel fun but often alienate buyers who don’t share your taste. These spaces may seem personalized to the point of distraction, limiting a buyer’s ability to envision themselves living there.
Instead, use subtle nods to themes through accents or accessories and keep walls and main pieces neutral. This approach offers flexibility and broad appeal, encouraging buyers to imagine their own style in the space.
Tips for staging your home to sell

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11. Plastic or Faux Wood Paneling

Plastic paneling and stick-on faux wood walls are quick fixes that rarely fool anyone—they tend to look both artificial and outdated. Real estate agents often see these choices as signals of budget renovations, which can lower a home’s perceived value.
For a richer, more inviting look, consider adding real wood accents like shiplap, or simply opt for smooth, painted drywall. These options create warmth and timeless appeal that buyers truly appreciate.
See wood accent inspiration

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12. Hollow Core Interior Doors

Hollow core interior doors are lightweight and inexpensive, but they feel insubstantial and do little to block sound—something real estate agents and buyers quickly notice. These doors can make even nicely finished rooms feel less valuable.
Upgrading to solid-core or paneled doors adds both weight and soundproofing, instantly elevating the sense of quality throughout your home. This small investment makes a big difference in both comfort and perceived property value.
Learn about choosing quality interior doors

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13. Overuse of Recessed Lighting

Excessive recessed lighting can make interiors feel harsh and sterile, stripping away the inviting ambiance that buyers crave. Relying solely on these fixtures often leaves rooms looking flat and uninspired—something real estate agents immediately notice.
For a more balanced and welcoming atmosphere, mix in pendant lights, wall sconces, and table lamps. This layered approach adds both warmth and dimension, making your space feel thoughtfully designed and far more appealing.
See current lighting trends

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14. Prefab Shower Inserts

Prefab plastic shower inserts are practical but instantly give bathrooms a low-end, utilitarian feel. Compared to tile or natural stone surrounds, these inserts lack the visual appeal and sense of permanence that impress buyers and agents alike.
Consider upgrading to tiled surrounds or high-quality acrylic panels for a more refined look. These materials not only increase durability but also elevate your bathroom’s style and overall home value.
Explore shower surround options

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15. Excessive Open Shelving in Kitchens

white wooden wall mounted shelf — Source: Photo by Julia on Unsplash

Too much open shelving in the kitchen can quickly result in a cluttered, chaotic appearance and make the space feel unfinished. While open shelves are trendy, real estate agents know that buyers often prefer the clean lines and concealed storage of closed cabinetry.
For the best impression, strike a balance by using mostly cabinets with just a few open shelves for curated displays or favorite dishes. This approach keeps kitchens functional, stylish, and universally appealing.

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16. Flat-Pack Cabinetry in High-Traffic Areas

Flat-pack cabinetry is budget-friendly, but in high-traffic zones like kitchens and bathrooms, these mass-produced cabinets can warp, chip, or show wear far too soon. Real estate agents recognize these quick fixes and know they rarely withstand daily life.
Instead, invest in semi-custom cabinetry or consider refacing existing cabinets with quality materials. These upgrades deliver lasting durability and a more upscale look, making your home stand out in a competitive market.
Read the kitchen cabinet buying guide

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17. Fake Brick or Stone Veneer Panels

Thin, stick-on faux brick or stone veneer panels tend to peel at the edges and rarely pass for the real thing, often looking artificial and detracting from your home’s overall charm. Real estate agents quickly recognize these shortcuts, which can diminish perceived quality.
For true impact, opt for real thin-brick or authentic stone accents. These materials offer genuine texture and depth, adding timeless appeal and lasting value to any space.
Learn more about brick veneer vs. real brick

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18. Inexpensive Peel-and-Stick Backsplashes

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles may seem like a quick fix, but they often bubble, peel, or misalign over time, creating a noticeably cheap appearance. Real estate agents immediately spot these shortcuts, which can undermine an otherwise well-finished kitchen or bath.
Instead, choose classic ceramic, subway, or glass tiles for a timeless, durable look. These materials not only enhance the space visually but also signal quality and care to potential buyers.
Find kitchen backsplash inspiration

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19. Mirrored Closet Doors

Full mirrored closet doors might have been stylish decades ago, but today they often evoke an outdated, 1980s vibe and can make a space feel cheap. Real estate agents know these doors seldom align with modern tastes and can detract from a room’s aesthetic.
For an updated look, replace them with frosted glass panels, wood-paneled doors, or contemporary sliding systems. These alternatives bring sophistication and fresh appeal to any bedroom or hallway.
See modern closet door ideas

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20. Outdated Brass Hardware

Shiny, yellow brass hardware instantly signals an old, builder-basic look that many buyers associate with the 80s and 90s. Real estate agents often advise swapping out these dated details to help modernize your home’s overall feel.
For a fresh update, choose brushed nickel, matte black, or mixed metal finishes. These options offer a versatile, sophisticated touch that complements today’s interior trends and adds a sense of quality throughout your space.
Explore kitchen hardware trends

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21. Overly Glossy Paint Finishes

a kitchen with a marble counter top and white cabinets — Source: Photo by Brian Zajac on Unsplash

High-gloss paint finishes on walls can appear overly shiny and even plastic-like, often drawing attention to every imperfection rather than hiding them. Real estate agents know this look can cheapen a space and make it feel less inviting. For a more refined and contemporary feel, choose matte or eggshell finishes. These paint options provide a subtle, elegant sheen and help walls look smooth and sophisticated in any light.
Learn about choosing paint finishes

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22. Plastic Switch Plates and Outlet Covers

Cheap plastic switch plates and outlet covers might seem insignificant, but they can subtly undermine a room’s overall appearance. These basic covers often clash with carefully chosen décor and signal a lack of attention to detail. For a quick, impactful upgrade, choose metal, wood, or decorative covers that coordinate with your room’s style. These small touches create a more cohesive and polished look, impressing both buyers and real estate agents.
See outlet cover upgrade ideas

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23. Excessive Use of Vinyl Wallpaper

Shiny, vinyl wallpapers can quickly make interiors feel tacky or dated, especially when used excessively. Their reflective finish and synthetic feel often signal cost-cutting rather than style to real estate agents and buyers. For a more elegant and contemporary effect, opt for textured paint or fabric wallcoverings. These alternatives add subtle depth and sophistication, creating a higher-end look that enhances your home’s appeal.
Explore modern wallpaper trends

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24. Too Much DIY Shiplap

Overusing shiplap can make your home feel like a set from a home renovation show, rather than a timeless, well-designed space. While shiplap adds charm in moderation, covering entire rooms or multiple areas with it quickly looks overdone to real estate agents and discerning buyers.
For a more balanced effect, use shiplap as a subtle accent or consider classic wainscoting for added texture and sophistication.
Get inspired by smart shiplap ideas

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25. Inexpensive Builder-Grade Faucets

a kitchen sink with a faucet and a yellow sponge — Source: Photo by Çağlar Oskay on Unsplash

Lightweight, chrome-plated builder-grade faucets often feel insubstantial and quickly show signs of wear. Real estate agents and buyers notice these budget fixtures, which can make kitchens and bathrooms seem less valuable than they are. Upgrade to solid brass, stainless steel, or matte black fixtures for a more substantial, modern look. These choices not only improve durability but also elevate your home’s style and perceived quality.
See faucet buying tips

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26. Mismatched Finishes Throughout the Home

rectangular brown and white sink — Source: Photo by Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash

Mismatched hardware and fixture finishes—such as mixing shiny brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and chrome in the same space—can make a home feel disjointed and poorly planned. Real estate agents spot these inconsistencies, which can distract buyers and diminish the sense of quality.
Create a cohesive finish palette that flows from room to room for a polished, harmonious look. Thoughtful coordination instantly elevates your interiors and gives buyers confidence in the home’s design.
Tips for mixing metal finishes

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27. Standard White Wire Bathroom Shelving

Basic white wire shelving in bathrooms may be functional, but it gives off a utilitarian, builder-grade vibe that undercuts your overall design. Real estate agents know these shelves lack the polish buyers look for in bathroom storage solutions.
For a more inviting and upscale feel, opt for floating wood shelves or built-in recessed niches. These alternatives add both style and smart storage, making your bathroom stand out.
Discover bathroom storage ideas

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28. Too Many Faux Plants

a white vase filled with green and orange flowers — Source: Photo by Zeeshan Chaudhry on Unsplash

Excessive use of faux plants can quickly cheapen a space, especially when the greenery looks obviously artificial or gathers dust. Real estate agents note that too many fake plants signal a lack of care and attention to detail. For a fresher, more appealing look, incorporate a few real, easy-care plants or choose higher-quality faux options that closely mimic nature. This approach adds life and style without overwhelming the décor.
Get tips for decorating with greenery

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29. Overly Ornate Doorknobs and Hinges

A close up of a door handle on a wooden door — Source: Photo by Bruchin Noeka on Unsplash

Overly ornate doorknobs and hinges can make doors look fussy and dated, rather than elegant. These decorative, low-end hardware pieces often clash with modern interiors and suggest a lack of thoughtful updates to real estate agents and buyers. For a more timeless and sophisticated look, opt for streamlined, modern hardware. Sleek finishes and simple forms complement any style and signal a higher standard of quality throughout your home.
See current hardware trends

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30. Inconsistent Flooring Transitions

Abrupt changes between flooring types—such as carpet to vinyl or mismatched woods—can make interiors feel choppy and unplanned. Real estate agents often view these transitions as shortcuts that signal cheap or rushed renovations.
For a more cohesive and high-end appearance, use smooth flooring transitions or maintain consistent materials throughout main living areas. This approach enhances flow and instantly elevates your home’s overall design.
See flooring transition solutions

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31. Overly Bright Accent Walls

Bold, intensely colored accent walls can make a space feel unbalanced and come across as amateur or overly trendy. Real estate agents often find that these eye-catching choices limit a room’s versatility and may turn off potential buyers.
For a more sophisticated effect, choose muted tones that complement the overall palette, or use artwork and textiles to introduce color and interest. This approach creates depth and style without overwhelming the space.
Explore accent wall inspiration

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32. Cheap Prefab Fireplace Surrounds

woman in gray long sleeve shirt sitting on floor beside fireplace — Source: Photo by NATHAN MULLET on Unsplash

Plastic or MDF prefab fireplace surrounds often lack the depth and character that make a fireplace a true focal point. Real estate agents recognize these low-cost materials as shortcuts that can diminish a room’s sense of luxury.
For a more upscale and inviting effect, opt for real stone, custom tile, or solid wood mantels. These materials create a lasting impression and instantly elevate the value and style of your living space.
Get ideas for fireplace upgrades

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Conclusion

Thoughtfully chosen design elements can make all the difference when it comes to maximizing your home’s value and appeal. Avoiding trends that scream “cheap” helps create a timeless, welcoming space that resonates with buyers and real estate agents alike.
Investing in quality materials and cohesive updates isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a smart move for your home’s long-term marketability.
As you plan your next project, remember: even the smallest upgrades can have a big impact. Start with intention, and let your home shine.

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