The Spare Room Dilemma: Bedroom, Office or Something Else?

A spare room can be one of the most useful spaces in a home. It might be where guests stay, where you work during the week or where you keep the things that don't quite fit anywhere else.

But if you're selling, you may find yourself wondering how best to present it. Should you make it look like a bedroom, set it up as a home office or leave it empty?

There isn't one answer that works for every property. The best approach is to show buyers how the room could be used while keeping its size and practical limitations clear.

Think about the buyers you're trying to reach

A buyer working from home may appreciate seeing a desk and somewhere to store paperwork. A growing family might be more interested in a bedroom for a child, while someone who regularly hosts friends may value a guest room.

You won't know every buyer's circumstances, so it is usually best to keep the room flexible and easy to understand.

If the room is currently used for storage, removing unnecessary clutter can help buyers appreciate the available space.

Does it need to look like a bedroom?

If the property is advertised with a certain number of bedrooms, make sure the description accurately reflects the accommodation.

A room's suitability may depend on its size, layout, access, natural light and other practical considerations. Don't assume that a space can automatically be described or used as a bedroom simply because a bed fits inside it.

Where there is any uncertainty about the room's status or permitted use, seek appropriate advice rather than relying on how it has been furnished.

The case for a home office

A desk, chair and a few carefully chosen accessories can help demonstrate how a smaller room could work as a home office.

Keep the setup proportionate to the space. Oversized furniture may make the room feel smaller, while too many accessories can distract from the layout.

Try to keep the desk positioned so buyers can still appreciate the room's windows, storage and available floor space.

What if the room is tiny?

You don't need to disguise a small room. The aim is to help buyers understand what is realistically possible.

Use furniture that fits comfortably, keep the floor as clear as possible and avoid filling every wall with storage.

If the room could serve several purposes, a simple setup may allow buyers to imagine their own use for it.

Don't overlook the rest of the home

It can be tempting to focus on making one room look perfect, but the overall presentation matters more.

Make sure the main living spaces are comfortable to move around, storage areas are reasonably tidy and the property feels consistent throughout.

A well-presented spare room can help buyers understand the home's flexibility, but it should support the wider appeal of the property rather than dominate the marketing.

Preparing to sell your home?

Holbrook Moran can help you decide how best to present your property's rooms and features before marketing. Contact our team in Redfield or Fishponds to discuss your plans.