- Viral decor from retailers like HomeGoods can help a listing stand out—but agents say bold pieces should make up no more than 10% of a home’s overall design.
- Natural materials, layered textures, and just one or two statement accents can add personality to a space without overwhelming buyers.
Scrolling through viral HomeGoods hauls is a digital treasure hunt of sorts—filled with whimsical wall art, textured ceramics, and unexpected statement pieces. And while these playful finds are winning attention online, Redfin agents say they can also help homeowners win when it comes time to sell—if used thoughtfully.
According to a HomeGoods spokesperson, the sense of discovery driving these viral moments is no accident. The retailer sources its famously varied decor items on an always-on basis, sending buyers to dozens of countries each year to find everything from designer goods to artisan pieces.
New inventory arrives multiple times a week to the average store, which HomeGoods says fuels a “never shop the same” experience for customers—and explains why trending items like cottagecore accents and porch ducks keep popping up across social media.
But for those looking to sell their home, an abundance of unique decor presents both an opportunity and a risk.
A Little Quirky Goes a Long Way
“Quirky decor can make a home feel current—but it has to be intentional and universally appealing,” says Denver-based Redfin senior agent and interior designer Tamara Mattox-Kabat.
Her rule of thumb is simple: bold or unconventional pieces should make up no more than 10% of a home’s overall décor. Instead of dominating a space, these pieces should act as subtle accents that add personality without overwhelming potential buyers.
Material choice plays a major role in striking that balance. Mattox-Kabat recommends prioritizing natural, high-quality finishes—like metal, stone, wood, and ceramic—over plastic or synthetic alternatives because they photograph well and can instantly elevate a space. “Chinoiserie pieces that can be filled with fresh fruit or flowers are a great option to this end,” she says.
Layering is another key strategy; thoughtfully combining textures can make a space feel curated rather than cluttered, according to Mattox-Kabat. She also suggests incorporating a few vintage or antique elements, such as brass candlesticks or vases—which can be found in droves at most HomeGoods stores—to convey a sense of warmth and livability.
At the same time, Mattox-Kabat cautions against overusing seasonal decor or artificial plants, which can detract from a home’s perceived value. And the importance of this kind of restraint is something fellow Redfin agent Kellie Martinez learned firsthand.
When “More” Starts to Hurt Your Sale
After “HomeGoods-ing the heck out” of her new build home, the Southern California-based premier agent was confident she had created a standout space. “It looked amazing—layered, styled, full of personality,” Martinez says. Plus, reactions from friends and neighbors seemed to confirm it; they all asked her where they could find lots of her pieces.
But once she decided to sell and her home hit the market, buyer feedback told a different story. “‘Beautiful, but a little busy,’ was the most common response,” she says.
That moment prompted her to scale things back. As she removed items, Martinez noticed an immediate shift: “A plain wall can suddenly feel calmer, bigger, and more inviting, she explained.
The experience reshaped her entire approach to staging, which she now describes as “broadly appealing with a wink.”
The Sweet Spot
In practice, that means sticking to clean, neutral foundations—think soft color palettes and organic textures like wood and linen—while incorporating just one or two standout pieces for personality. A single sculptural object or eye-catching accent can create a memorable focal point, especially in listing photos where buyers are scrolling. But filling a home with too many conversation starters can distract from what really matters: the space itself.
Ultimately, the viral appeal of HomeGoods-style shopping highlights a broader shift toward individuality in home design. By editing thoughtfully and styling with intention, sellers can tap into this trend while keeping their home widely appealing—and that balance can make all the difference when it comes to maximizing sale price.
