Do Coastal Modern Interiors Boost Resale Value?

The Rise of Coastal Modern: Style Meets Saleability

In 2025, one design trend continues to dominate high-end listings from Malibu to Miami: Coastal Modern Interiors. But the question savvy sellers ask is this—does this style help or hurt resale?

At JarettRichards.com, where we blend luxury living with sharp market strategy, we’re breaking down why this aesthetic is more than a Pinterest trend—it’s a smart staging move when done right.

What is Coastal Modern Design in Real Estate?

While traditional coastal styles leaned heavily into seashells and sailor motifs, modern coastal is understated sophistication. Think:

Light-filled spaces
Neutral palettes with soft blues and sandy hues
Organic materials like linen, rattan, and bleached wood
Clean lines and minimalist furniture
Visual flow between indoors and outdoors

The overall effect is tranquil, elegant, and high-end qualities that resonate strongly with luxury buyers, especially in lifestyle-driven markets.

Real Estate Benefits of Coastal Modern Design

From a property value perspective, here’s why this trend works for resale:

✅ 1. Broad Buyer Appeal

Coastal modern’s neutral tones and open layouts create a blank slate ideal for buyers envisioning their future in the space. It's especially effective in vacation home markets or second-home purchases.

✅ 2. Enhanced Perceived Space

The emphasis on light and air can make smaller homes feel more spacious, increasing their perceived value—especially in premium square-foot markets like LA, Miami, or NYC suburbs.

✅ 3. Natural Material Advantage

Buyers increasingly prefer homes with eco-conscious design choices. Using wood, linen, and natural stone aligns with sustainable values—without sacrificing luxury.

✅ 4. Easy to Stage & Photograph

Coastal modern interiors look incredible in real estate photography. The soft color palette and texture layering elevate MLS listings and drive more clicks, views, and showings.

✅ 5. Flexible Across Property Types

Whether it’s a beachfront condo, lakefront estate, or even an urban penthouse, the coastal-modern vibe is versatile and adaptable, offering a seamless style upgrade across different markets.

**Coastal Modern Mistakes That Hurt Resale**

While the look is hot, it’s easy to misstep. Avoid these common design errors that could backfire during resale:

❌ Over-Themed Decor

Avoid literal coastal symbols like anchors, rope art, or “BEACH” signs. These can make the home feel kitschy or overly niche. Sophisticated buyers want elegance, not a theme park.

❌ Monotone Whiteout

A room drowned in white can feel cold. Follow the 70-20-10 design rule: 70% neutral, 20% soft color (blues, beiges), and 10% bold accents (coral, navy, driftwood).

❌ Heavy or Bulky Furniture

Dark, oversized pieces kill the light and airy flow. Instead, opt for elevated, leggy furniture that enhances light penetration and creates visual spaciousness.

**Is Coastal Modern Right for Your Property?**

At JarettRichards.com, we guide sellers through tailored pre-listing design strategies. A few guiding questions we ask:

Is the home in a lifestyle market (e.g., coastal, desert, resort town)?
Does the property feature natural light, large windows, or outdoor flow?
Are buyers in your market seeking relaxation, escape, or investment?

If the answer is yes, then Coastal Modern may be your most strategic design choice for market prep in 2025.

Pro Staging Tip:

If you’re renovating to sell, invest in paint and lighting first. A fresh white wall (try Benjamin Moore’s White Dove) and smart light layering can instantly modernize a tired space with minimal spend.

Coastal Isn’t Just a Look, It’s a Lifestyle

More than a trend, coastal modern interior design sells the feeling of escape and serenity. And in today’s luxury real estate market, emotion plays a powerful role in decision-making. Buyers aren't just looking for square footage—they're looking for a lifestyle.

With the right execution, this design choice can position your home not only as beautiful—but also as sellable.