Moving into a new condo is exciting — it’s a fresh space where every design choice can help make it feel like home. If you’re thinking about long-term value and resale, some upgrades can make a noticeable difference right away, while others are smart investments that pay off down the road.

Here are a few ideas to consider as you settle in:

Start with the basics: closets & window coverings

Custom closets and tailored window coverings not only improve everyday function, they also elevate the look and feel of your condo. They’re one of the first upgrades buyers notice — and appreciate.

Swap out builder-grade finishes

Replacing standard fixtures with more stylish choices can transform a space without breaking the bank. Light fixtures, vanity mirrors, and cabinet hardware are easy places to start. Local retailers offer plenty of options under $200 that look high-end and polished.

Choose lighter wall colors

Neutral, light paint shades in the main living areas instantly brighten your condo and make rooms feel larger and more open.

Keep flooring and lighting consistent

Flow is key in condos. Consistent flooring throughout helps create a seamless look, while pot lights add brightness and visually expand the space.

Be strategic with hanging fixtures

Less is more when it comes to pendant and chandelier lighting. One statement fixture over the dining table (as long as it doesn’t block a view), and two or three pendants over the island (depending on its size) are usually all you need. Keep everything else flush or semi-flush mount to maximize ceiling height.

Blend ceiling fans into the space

If you prefer ceiling fans in the bedrooms, opt for low-profile, white styles. They blend into the ceiling and keep the room feeling spacious rather than weighed down.

You don’t need a full renovation to add value to your condo. Smart updates — from custom closets and blinds to thoughtful lighting choices — make your space more enjoyable now and more appealing when it’s time to sell.

Lighting might be one of the most underrated design elements in a home—but it's one of the most important. A properly sized and well-placed ceiling fixture can completely transform the look and feel of a room. Whether you're prepping your home for sale or simply giving your space a fresh update, here’s a guide to help you choose the right light fixture size and style for each room.

1. Get the size right: light fixture sizing by room

One of the most common mistakes I see when walking into homes is lighting that’s either too large and overpowering—or too small and underwhelming. A quick rule of thumb to determine the ideal diameter (in inches) of a ceiling fixture is to add together the room’s length and width in feet. The result? That’s your light’s approximate diameter in inches.

Example:
A 12' x 14' room → 12 + 14 = 26 → look for a fixture around 26 inches wide.

For dining rooms or spaces with a specific focal point (like over a table or kitchen island), the scale should relate more to the furniture than the room itself. In that case:

• The fixture should be about ½ to ⅔ the width of the table or island.

• Hang it 30–36 inches above the table surface (higher if your ceilings are over 8').

2. Flush mount vs. pendant: which to choose?

Flush mounts:
These are ideal for spaces with standard ceiling heights (typically 8 feet or less), where you don’t want the fixture to hang too low. Think hallways, closets, laundry rooms, and small bedrooms.

Semi-flush or pendant fixtures:
These work well in rooms with higher ceilings or where you want to make a design statement. They provide more visual interest and tend to offer better ambient light. Consider them for:

• Entryways and foyers

• Dining rooms

• Kitchen islands

• Bedrooms with 9'+ ceilings

A pendant or chandelier in the right size can elevate a space instantly, especially when selling your home—it adds a layer of design that buyers respond to.

3. Mixing metals: yes, you can!

One of the top questions I get when clients are updating light fixtures is whether they should match the finishes throughout their home. The short answer? Not everything has to match, but it does need to coordinate.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Stick to two or three metal finishes throughout the home for consistency.

• If your cabinet hardware is matte black and your faucet is brushed brass, a light fixture that blends both tones can tie everything together.

• In open-concept spaces, mixing metals can help define different areas while still keeping the flow.

Pro tip: Repeating the same metal finish at least twice in a space (for example, a brass light and brass-framed mirror) helps it feel intentional rather than accidental.

Whether you're updating light fixtures to modernize your home or preparing it for sale, paying attention to the size, placement, and finish of ceiling lights can make a huge difference. And if you're not sure where to start, I’m always happy to walk through your space and help with suggestions that also make sense for resale value.