Home Office
These days you’re bound to encounter buyers who telecommute — or plan to in the future — and that means a home office is becoming an important part of the homebuying decision.
If the office space in your home means a decades-old metal desk nestled between the hot water tank and a basement wall or if it’s a crowded catchall for the excess stuff that doesn’t fit in the rest of the house, then it’s time to revaluate the space so buyers can imagine themselves being productive, happy workers. This section walks you through the steps you take to bring your office up to selling standards.
If you work from home and need to continue working from your home office during the home selling process, this part provides you with some sale preparation strategies to make this setup work while you’re selling your property.
Think about this: Is the office the best use of this space
WHY YOU SHOULD BOTHER
Of Buyers Are Willing To Pay More
According to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, 65% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with a home office.
Another survey suggested that 30% more buyers are willing to consider a home if it had a home office.
Less Time on Market
A survey found that homes with a dedicated home office sell 12% faster than homes without one.
This equates to approximately 9 days faster in some cases.
Of Buyers Would Pay More
A survey by Redfin found that 45% of home buyers said they would pay more for a home with a home office, while only 36% said they would pay more for a home with a pool.
Studies show that a home listed with the keyword “home office” sold for 3.4% more.
of Employees Would Quit
This trend is only set to continue with a report by FlexJobs showed that 52% of employees said they would quit their current job for one that allowed them to work remotely more often.
That’s more than 1 in 2 people searching for an opportunity to work from home and they will therefore need the space.
Quick Checklist
💼 Why Home Offices Are a Must-Have for Today’s Buyers
The rise in remote work has made functional home offices more desirable than ever. As more people shift to working from home, buyers are placing higher value on properties with a dedicated workspace. For sellers, this presents a key opportunity: staging a home office can significantly enhance a home’s appeal and value.
🧩 Show the Potential: A Versatile, Purposeful Space
Staging a home office is about more than just aesthetics — it’s about helping buyers imagine how the space can work for them. Whether used as a study, creative zone, or remote work hub, the office should feel flexible, inspiring, and well thought out.
👃 Create a Calm Atmosphere
Scent and ambiance play a subtle but powerful role in first impressions.
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Use soft, clean scents – Think lavender, fresh linen, or sandalwood.
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Leave the door open – Let buyers walk in freely and imagine the space in use.
Let in the Light
Great lighting can completely change how a room feels. Bright, warm, and natural lighting is ideal.
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Maximise natural light – Open curtains or blinds before inspections.
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Use warm white lighting – Softer, more inviting than harsh fluorescents.
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Hang a mirror – Reflects light and makes smaller spaces feel bigger.
🧼 Polish and Maintain
A tidy space signals that the home has been well cared for — which adds confidence for buyers.
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Oil squeaky drawers or hinges
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Fix loose handles or furniture
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Hide tech clutter – Tuck away printers, modems, and messy cords
🏠 Showcase Unique Architectural Features
Have a built-in bookshelf, feature wall, or large window? Incorporate these into the office design. Highlighting architectural details adds flow and character while boosting perceived value.
📝 A Small Space With Big Impact
In today’s market, a well-staged home office can make or break a sale. It’s not just a nice-to-have — it’s something buyers are actively looking for. By creating a tidy, flexible, and visually appealing workspace, sellers can boost their home’s desirability and stand out in a competitive market.
🛠️ Highlight Functionality and Comfort
Buyers need to see a space that works — not just one that looks nice. Include a desk, ergonomic chair, ample lighting, and smart storage solutions. Thoughtful layout and styling will make the room feel practical and productive.
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Use a clean, modern desk and chair – Avoid bulky or dated office furniture.
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Add a desk lamp – A sleek, warm light makes the space feel more usable.
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Display minimal stationery – A pen holder or tray is enough to imply purpose.
🧹 Start with a Clean, Calm Foundation
Decluttering is critical. A clean, organised, and well-lit room instantly feels more inviting. Removing distractions and excess creates a sense of calm that helps buyers visualise themselves working comfortably in the space.
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Remove personal paperwork and clutter – Hide bills, documents, post-its, and kids’ drawings.
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Clear the desk surface – Just a laptop, a notebook, and one or two tasteful accessories is enough.
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Tidy cables and cords – Use cord covers or run cables behind furniture to keep things sleek.
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Clean windows and skirting boards – Don’t forget the overlooked spots — they matter.
🎨 Keep it Neutral, with Personality
Neutral tones like white, beige, or soft grey foster a sense of calm and clarity. Add subtle pops of colour, greenery, or art to give the room warmth and character without overwhelming the eye.
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Add a pop of greenery – A plant instantly freshens the space.
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Hang minimalist art – One framed piece adds interest without distraction.
