The power of scent in real estate is a strong tool for savvy sellers. It helps create lasting impressions and emotional connections with buyers. Our biology links scent, memory, and emotion, making it a unique way to impact the home-buying experience.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Feu de Bois
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Feu de Bois evokes fresh pine falling on curls of sandalwood & rare Virginia cedarwood. Smoky leather accords, frankincense & nuances of vanilla are tranquil and comforting.
- The Feu de Bois candle evokes the mood of being in a Ski House.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Paradiso Fig Scent
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – This succulent and vibrant fragrance features complementary notes of juicy and earthy fruits, including hints of Sicilian bergamot, ripe peach, and Paradiso fig, a renowned Italian variety with vibrant green skin and vivid red pulp.
- CLEAN BURN – Renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles release fragrance gradually & evenly. We use highly concentrated essential oil-based fragrances to deliver a true, long-lasting scent.
- The Paradiso Fig candle evokes the mood of being in a Villa.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle, Champagne
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Champagne features fresh orange & mandarin zest, raspberry & Tuscan lemon sparkle, and a twist of grapefruit & ginger. Essences of rose and neroli, woven with verbena, make the scent effervescent and bright.
- CLEAN BURN – Renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles release fragrance gradually & evenly. Highly concentrated essential oil-based fragrances to deliver a true, long-lasting scent.
- The Champagne candle evokes the mood of being in a Penthouse.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Sea & Dune Scent
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Sea & Dune evokes fresh lemon and spicy coastal lily falling into watery blue lotus and natural sea grass. Warm golden amber and cool sea spray invite you to escape to endless summer days.
- The Sea & Dune candle evokes the mood of being in a Beach House.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Chamomile Lavender Scent
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Chamomile Lavender features lavender with warm & enveloping bergamot. Calming chamomile melts into a heart of eucalyptus to create a feeling of well-being. Smoky patchouli is enhanced by hints of sage & rosemary for a quiet, relaxing finish.
- The Chamomile Lavender candle evokes the mood of being in a Bedroom.
LAFCO New York Signature Candle – Amber Black Vanilla Scent
- SCENT – Amber Black Vanilla features orange, raspberry, and spicy clove that evolve into an elaborate blend of sheer jasmine and cassis. Black vanilla, amber, and sandalwood create a warm background to this welcoming scent. The Amber Black Vanilla candle evokes the mood of being in a Foyer.
- CLEAN BURN – Characterized by a slow burn, our renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles release fragrance gradually & evenly. We use highly concentrated essential oil-based fragrances to deliver a true, long-lasting scent.
- REUSABLE VESSEL
Homesick Scented Candles for Home (Hawaii) – Notes of Pineapple & Coconut
- Island Escape: Juicy pineapple and coconut combine with sandy shore breezes, ocean tides, cyclamen flowers, and just a hint of sugar cane. Aloha Hawaii. The Hawaii candle from Homesick captures the tropical paradise of the islands. 13.75 oz.
- Scents As Unique As Your Memories: Experience the essence of Hawaii with notes of fresh pineapple and coconut, mingling with the coastal breeze and floral hints of cyclamen, and enriched by the sweet undertones of sugar, vanilla, and musk.
- Poured with Care: All Homesick candles are poured in small batches with a natural soy wax blend. They have 100% organic cotton wicks and are made to deliver a long-lasting, great-smelling burn. The typical burn time of a 13.75 oz candle is 60-80 hours.
- Homesick candles are cruelty-free, non-toxic and contain no lead, plastics, paraben, phthalates or synthetic dyes.
Homesick Scented Candles for Home (New Home) – Notes of Jasmine, Cedarwood, Lime, Sandalwood, Oakmoss & Musk
- Welcome Home: Fresh linen, clean air, and a blank canvas all to your own. An empty house filled with possibilities and countless memories waiting to be made. The New Home candle from Homesick is perfect for making any new space feel like home. 13.75 oz.
- Scents As Unique As Your Memories: Experience the warm and inviting blend of enchanting top notes of jasmine and cedarwood, comforting mid notes of lime and sandalwood, and the grounding base notes of oakmoss and musk.
- Poured with Care: All Homesick candles are poured in small batches with a natural soy wax blend. They have 100% organic cotton wicks and are made to deliver a long-lasting, great-smelling burn. The typical burn time of a 13.75 oz candle is 60-80 hours.
Homesick Scented Candles for Home (New York City) – Notes of Lemon, Grapefruit & Jasmine
- Urban Vibrance: The distinctive scents of spring days in Central Park, fine department stores, and concrete capture the energy of the greatest city on earth. The New York City candle from Homesick brings the dynamic essence of NYC to your home. 13.75 oz.
- Scents As Unique As Your Memories: Experience the invigorating top notes of bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit, the floral and urban mid notes of jasmine, concrete, and water lilies, and the grounding base notes of oakmoss, sandalwood, and musk.
- Poured with Care: All Homesick candles are poured in small batches with a natural soy wax blend. They have 100% organic cotton wicks and are made to deliver a long-lasting, great-smelling burn. The typical burn time of a 13.75 oz candle is 60-80 hours.
Homesick Star Wars Millennium Falcon Scented Candle – Leather & Brushed Suede Scented Candle
- DISTINCTIVE SCENTS OF MILLENNIUM FALCON: Don’t be fooled by the shabby exterior, this legendary freighter from a galaxy far, far away is built for light speed. Notes of rusted steel and leather waft as your next galactic adventure begins.
- EXCEPTIONAL COMBINATION OF SCENTS: Natural and sustainable materials with fragrant Top Notes of Leather, Smoked Tobacco, Bergamot; Mid Notes: Brushed Suede, Dark Bourbon, Santal; Base Notes: Vetiver, Rusted Steel, Cashmere Musk.
- THE PERFECT CANDLE: This 26 oz scented candle is the perfect accessory for your home and office as it brings back memories through nostalgic scents.
- POURED IN SMALL BATCHES: With an average burn time of 110-150 hours, this Homesick Premium Scented Candle is hand-poured with a natural soy wax blend. A perfect scented candle for calm and meditation.
- CANDLE CARE: We recommend keeping the organic cotton wick trimmed at 1/4 inches and burning it for 2-3 hours at a time.
The Proust Phenomenon: Unlocking Memories and Emotions
The Proust Phenomenon is named after French novelist Marcel Proust. It shows how scents can bring back memories and feelings. In real estate, this can help buyers feel more connected to a property.
Dr. Rachel Herz, a neuroscientist, says: “Scent is special because it connects directly to our emotions and memories. The right scent can make us feel comfort, nostalgia, or even desire. These feelings can sway a buyer’s choice.”
Studies show that the right scents can make a property seem 40% more appealing. For example, a 2019 study found that homes with citrus and vanilla scents were seen as more valuable. They got higher offers than unscented homes.
The Limbic System: Your Brain on Scent
Knowing how our brains handle scents is key for sellers. The limbic system, including the amygdala and hippocampus, is important for emotions and memories. When a buyer smells a scent in a home, their limbic system starts working. It makes connections and shapes their view of the space.
A study in Chicago showed scents can change how we see space. Vanilla made a room seem bigger, while barbecue smoke made it seem smaller. This shows how scent can influence our perception.
Dr. Alan Hirsch, the study’s director, says: “Scent is a strong tool in real estate. It can create positive feelings and change how we see space. This is great for making small spaces feel bigger and more welcoming.”
The Impact of Scent on Decision-Making
The influence of scent extends beyond just creating pleasant associations; it can directly impact decision-making processes. A study published in the Journal of Retailing found that ambient scents can increase the amount of time shoppers spend in a store and the likelihood of making a purchase. In the context of real estate, this translates to potential buyers spending more time exploring a property and being more inclined to make an offer.
Real estate agent Sarah Thompson of Coldwell Banker shares her experience: “I’ve seen firsthand how the right scent can transform a showing. In one case, we had a property that had been on the market for months with little interest. After implementing a strategic scenting plan, we received multiple offers within a week. The buyers specifically mentioned how inviting and memorable the home felt.”
Top Scents to Sell Your House (and Why They Work)
Understanding the science behind scent’s impact is crucial, but knowing which specific aromas to use is equally important. Let’s explore the most effective scents for selling your home, backed by research and expert opinions.
1. Citrus: Fresh and Energizing
Citrus scents, including lemon, orange, and grapefruit, are among the best scents to sell a house. They create an atmosphere of cleanliness and freshness, which is essential when showcasing a home.
- SCENT – This succulent and vibrant fragrance features complementary notes of juicy and…
- CLEAN BURN – Characterized by a slow burn, our renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles…
- REUSABLE VESSEL – Each hand blown glass vessel is beautifully crafted to enhance the…
- HOUSE & HOME COLLECTION – Our House & Home collection transports you to a room, setting,…
- Why it works: Citrus scents are associated with cleanliness and can make spaces feel larger and more open. A study by the Sense of Smell Institute found that lemon is the most “mood-enhancing” scent, with 85% of participants reporting feeling more energized and positive when exposed to it.
- Best uses: Kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.
- Expert tip: Carolyn Gagnon, a real estate agent at Compass in New York City, recommends using citrusy scents to ensure a property feels and smells clean. “I often use a light lemon scent in kitchens and bathrooms. It creates an immediate impression of cleanliness without being overwhelming.”
- Application method: For a natural approach, simmer lemon slices and rosemary sprigs in water on the stove. This creates a fresh, clean scent that permeates the home without the use of artificial fragrances.
2. Vanilla: Warm and Inviting
Vanilla is a universally appealing scent that can make a house feel like a home. Its warm, comforting aroma creates a welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers.
- Amber Black Vanilla Scent: A burst of gardenia, orange blossom and ylang ylang, with…
- Handcrafted Glass Bottle: Crafted with premium quality fragrances and delivered in a…
- Long-lasting Air Aroma: Not all reed diffusers are created equally; many fragrance oils…
- How To Make The Most of Your Diffuser: Customize your fragrance experience by the number…
- Why it works: Vanilla evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making buyers feel at ease. A study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that vanilla scents reduced stress and anxiety levels in participants by up to 63%.
- Best uses: Living rooms, bedrooms, and cozy spaces.
- Expert tip: Real estate staging expert Barb Schwarz suggests combining vanilla with a hint of cinnamon for a homey, baked-goods aroma that appeals to many buyers. “This combination can create the illusion of freshly baked cookies, triggering positive memories and emotions in potential buyers.”
- Application method: Use high-quality vanilla essential oil in a diffuser, or place vanilla-scented wax melts in strategic locations throughout the home. For a more subtle approach, place a few drops of vanilla extract on light bulbs before turning them on.
3. Pine and Cedar: Natural and Fresh
Wood-based scents like pine and cedar can bring a touch of nature indoors, creating a fresh and clean environment.
- SCENT – Feu de Bois evokes fresh pine falling on curls of sandalwood & rare Virginia…
- CLEAN BURN – Characterized by a slow burn, our renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles…
- REUSABLE VESSEL – Each hand blown glass vessel is beautifully crafted to enhance the…
- HOUSE & HOME COLLECTION – Our House & Home collection transports you to a room, setting,…
- Why it works: These scents are associated with cleanliness and the outdoors, making spaces feel pure and revitalized. A study by Kyoto University found that walking in a pine forest significantly reduced stress levels and improved overall mood.
- Best uses: Living areas, home offices, and sun rooms.
- Expert tip: John Smith, a real estate agent specializing in mountain properties, advises using pine or cedar scents sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space. “A subtle hint is all you need. I often use a light pine scent in homes with wooden features to enhance the natural ambiance.”
- Application method: Use pine or cedar essential oils in a diffuser, or place a few drops on wooden surfaces or pinecones scattered throughout the home. For a more natural approach, bring in small potted evergreen plants or fresh pine branches.
4. Jasmine: Luxurious and Relaxing
Jasmine’s sweet, floral scent can add a touch of luxury and relaxation to your home.
- Why it works: Jasmine is known for its calming properties and can make a space feel more upscale. A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry found that the scent of jasmine is as effective as valium in relieving anxiety and promoting sleep.
- Best uses: Bedrooms, bathrooms, and formal living areas.
- Expert tip: Interior designer Lisa Johnson recommends pairing jasmine with vanilla for a sophisticated, spa-like ambiance in master bathrooms. “This combination creates a sense of luxury and relaxation that can make buyers envision themselves unwinding in the space.”
- Application method: Use jasmine essential oil in a diffuser or place jasmine-scented sachets in drawers and closets. For a more dramatic effect, consider placing a vase of fresh jasmine flowers in key areas of the home.
5. Green Apple: Fresh and Appetizing
The crisp, clean scent of green apple can make your home feel fresh and appealing.
- Why it works: Apple scents are associated with cleanliness and can stimulate appetite, making kitchens more appealing. A study by the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation found that the scent of green apple reduced headache symptoms in test subjects by up to 50%.
- Best uses: Kitchens and dining areas.
- Expert tip: Real estate photographer Emily Brown suggests using green apple scents in conjunction with decluttering your kitchen to create a fresh, organized feel. “I’ve noticed that homes with a light apple scent in the kitchen tend to photograph better and create a more appealing first impression in online listings.”
- Application method: Use green apple-scented candles or wax melts, or create a natural air freshener by simmering apple peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in water on the stove.
How to Scent Your Home for a Showing
Creating the perfect scent environment for your home showing requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively use scent to enhance your property’s appeal:
Choose the Right Method
- Candles: Offer a warm glow along with scent but should be used cautiously due to fire risk. Opt for high-quality, natural soy or beeswax candles with lead-free wicks to avoid potentially harmful chemicals.
- Diffusers: Provide consistent fragrance without flames. Reed diffusers are particularly effective for maintaining a subtle, continuous scent. Electric diffusers with timers can offer more control over scent intensity and duration.
- Wax warmers: Offer strong scent throw without open flames. Choose warmers with automatic shut-off features for safety.
- Natural methods: Simmer pots with cinnamon sticks, orange peels, and cloves can create a welcoming, homey aroma. Baking cookies or bread before a showing can also produce an inviting scent.
- HVAC scenting: For larger homes or more consistent scenting, consider using scent machines that connect to your HVAC system. These can provide even distribution of fragrance throughout the entire home.
Scent Placement Strategy
- Entryway: Create a welcoming first impression with a light, fresh scent like citrus or clean linen. Place a reed diffuser on a small table or use a plug-in air freshener near the entrance.
- Living Room: Use warm, inviting scents like vanilla or light florals. Consider using a combination of methods, such as a scented candle on the coffee table and a subtle room spray on upholstery.
- Kitchen: Opt for clean citrus scents or natural cooking aromas. Use a simmering pot on the stove or place scented wax melts near the sink area.
- Bathrooms: Choose clean, fresh scents like linen or light florals. Use automatic spray dispensers or small reed diffusers placed on countertops or toilet tanks.
- Bedrooms: Use calming scents like lavender or vanilla. Place scented sachets in drawers or use lightly scented linen sprays on bedding.
- Outdoor areas: Don’t forget about patios or decks. Use citronella or light floral scents to create an inviting outdoor atmosphere while also repelling insects.
Timing is Everything
- Start scenting your home about an hour before the showing to allow the fragrance to permeate the space without becoming overwhelming.
- If using candles, light them 30 minutes before the showing and extinguish them just before buyers arrive for safety reasons.
- For natural methods like baking or simmering pots, start the process about 2 hours before the showing to allow the scent to develop and spread throughout the home.
- Consider using programmable scent diffusers that can be set to release fragrance at specific times, ensuring a consistent scent experience for multiple showings.
The Power of Subtlety
Remember, the goal is to enhance the home’s appeal, not overwhelm potential buyers. Steve Frankel, estates director at Coldwell Banker Realty in Beverly Hills, California, advises, “You want the scent to be present but not overpowering. It should complement the home’s features, not mask them.”
- Use lighter scents in smaller spaces and stronger scents in larger, open areas.
- Layer scents carefully, ensuring that fragrances in adjacent rooms complement each other rather than clash.
- Be mindful of potential allergies or sensitivities. Always have a backup plan with unscented options if needed.
Expert Tips for Scent Success
- Consistency is key: Maintain a consistent scent profile throughout your home’s time on the market. This creates a memorable experience for buyers who may visit multiple times.
- Consider the season: Adjust your scent strategy based on the time of year. Fresh, light scents work well in spring and summer, while warmer, spicier fragrances are more appropriate for fall and winter.
- Test before you invest: Before committing to a scent for your home, test it out for a few days to ensure it doesn’t become overwhelming or cause any adverse reactions.
- Clean first, scent second: Ensure your home is thoroughly cleaned before adding any fragrances. Scents should enhance a clean home, not mask underlying odors.
- Document your strategy: Keep a record of which scents you use in each area of your home. This allows you to easily replicate the scent experience for future showings and open houses.
By following these detailed guidelines and expert tips, you can create a captivating sensory experience that leaves a lasting positive impression on potential buyers, potentially leading to a faster sale and better offers.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Feu de Bois
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Feu de Bois evokes fresh pine falling on curls of sandalwood & rare Virginia cedarwood. Smoky leather accords, frankincense & nuances of vanilla are tranquil and comforting.
- The Feu de Bois candle evokes the mood of being in a Ski House.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Paradiso Fig Scent
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – This succulent and vibrant fragrance features complementary notes of juicy and earthy fruits, including hints of Sicilian bergamot, ripe peach, and Paradiso fig, a renowned Italian variety with vibrant green skin and vivid red pulp.
- CLEAN BURN – Renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles release fragrance gradually & evenly. We use highly concentrated essential oil-based fragrances to deliver a true, long-lasting scent.
- The Paradiso Fig candle evokes the mood of being in a Villa.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle, Champagne
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Champagne features fresh orange & mandarin zest, raspberry & Tuscan lemon sparkle, and a twist of grapefruit & ginger. Essences of rose and neroli, woven with verbena, make the scent effervescent and bright.
- CLEAN BURN – Renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles release fragrance gradually & evenly. Highly concentrated essential oil-based fragrances to deliver a true, long-lasting scent.
- The Champagne candle evokes the mood of being in a Penthouse.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Sea & Dune Scent
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Sea & Dune evokes fresh lemon and spicy coastal lily falling into watery blue lotus and natural sea grass. Warm golden amber and cool sea spray invite you to escape to endless summer days.
- The Sea & Dune candle evokes the mood of being in a Beach House.
LAFCO New York Luxe 4-Wick Candle – Chamomile Lavender Scent
- 86 oz – 200-Hour Burn Time – Reusable, Hand Blown Glass Vessel – Made in The USA
- SCENT – Chamomile Lavender features lavender with warm & enveloping bergamot. Calming chamomile melts into a heart of eucalyptus to create a feeling of well-being. Smoky patchouli is enhanced by hints of sage & rosemary for a quiet, relaxing finish.
- The Chamomile Lavender candle evokes the mood of being in a Bedroom.
LAFCO New York Signature Candle – Amber Black Vanilla Scent
- SCENT – Amber Black Vanilla features orange, raspberry, and spicy clove that evolve into an elaborate blend of sheer jasmine and cassis. Black vanilla, amber, and sandalwood create a warm background to this welcoming scent. The Amber Black Vanilla candle evokes the mood of being in a Foyer.
- CLEAN BURN – Characterized by a slow burn, our renewable and non-toxic soy wax candles release fragrance gradually & evenly. We use highly concentrated essential oil-based fragrances to deliver a true, long-lasting scent.
- REUSABLE VESSEL
Homesick Scented Candles for Home (Hawaii) – Notes of Pineapple & Coconut
- Island Escape: Juicy pineapple and coconut combine with sandy shore breezes, ocean tides, cyclamen flowers, and just a hint of sugar cane. Aloha Hawaii. The Hawaii candle from Homesick captures the tropical paradise of the islands. 13.75 oz.
- Scents As Unique As Your Memories: Experience the essence of Hawaii with notes of fresh pineapple and coconut, mingling with the coastal breeze and floral hints of cyclamen, and enriched by the sweet undertones of sugar, vanilla, and musk.
- Poured with Care: All Homesick candles are poured in small batches with a natural soy wax blend. They have 100% organic cotton wicks and are made to deliver a long-lasting, great-smelling burn. The typical burn time of a 13.75 oz candle is 60-80 hours.
- Homesick candles are cruelty-free, non-toxic and contain no lead, plastics, paraben, phthalates or synthetic dyes.
Homesick Scented Candles for Home (New Home) – Notes of Jasmine, Cedarwood, Lime, Sandalwood, Oakmoss & Musk
- Welcome Home: Fresh linen, clean air, and a blank canvas all to your own. An empty house filled with possibilities and countless memories waiting to be made. The New Home candle from Homesick is perfect for making any new space feel like home. 13.75 oz.
- Scents As Unique As Your Memories: Experience the warm and inviting blend of enchanting top notes of jasmine and cedarwood, comforting mid notes of lime and sandalwood, and the grounding base notes of oakmoss and musk.
- Poured with Care: All Homesick candles are poured in small batches with a natural soy wax blend. They have 100% organic cotton wicks and are made to deliver a long-lasting, great-smelling burn. The typical burn time of a 13.75 oz candle is 60-80 hours.
Homesick Scented Candles for Home (New York City) – Notes of Lemon, Grapefruit & Jasmine
- Urban Vibrance: The distinctive scents of spring days in Central Park, fine department stores, and concrete capture the energy of the greatest city on earth. The New York City candle from Homesick brings the dynamic essence of NYC to your home. 13.75 oz.
- Scents As Unique As Your Memories: Experience the invigorating top notes of bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit, the floral and urban mid notes of jasmine, concrete, and water lilies, and the grounding base notes of oakmoss, sandalwood, and musk.
- Poured with Care: All Homesick candles are poured in small batches with a natural soy wax blend. They have 100% organic cotton wicks and are made to deliver a long-lasting, great-smelling burn. The typical burn time of a 13.75 oz candle is 60-80 hours.
Homesick Star Wars Millennium Falcon Scented Candle – Leather & Brushed Suede Scented Candle
- DISTINCTIVE SCENTS OF MILLENNIUM FALCON: Don’t be fooled by the shabby exterior, this legendary freighter from a galaxy far, far away is built for light speed. Notes of rusted steel and leather waft as your next galactic adventure begins.
- EXCEPTIONAL COMBINATION OF SCENTS: Natural and sustainable materials with fragrant Top Notes of Leather, Smoked Tobacco, Bergamot; Mid Notes: Brushed Suede, Dark Bourbon, Santal; Base Notes: Vetiver, Rusted Steel, Cashmere Musk.
- THE PERFECT CANDLE: This 26 oz scented candle is the perfect accessory for your home and office as it brings back memories through nostalgic scents.
- POURED IN SMALL BATCHES: With an average burn time of 110-150 hours, this Homesick Premium Scented Candle is hand-poured with a natural soy wax blend. A perfect scented candle for calm and meditation.
- CANDLE CARE: We recommend keeping the organic cotton wick trimmed at 1/4 inches and burning it for 2-3 hours at a time.
Key Odors to Avoid While a Home is on the Market
Avoid smells like pet odors, trash, and dirty socks to make your home more inviting… Ready to find out how the right smell can sell your place? Keep reading.
Cigarette Smoke
Cigarette smoke in a house is bad news. It can make the time it takes to sell longer and lower the final price. A friend of Frankel lost half a million dollars when selling their home because of smoke smell.
This shows how serious buyers take clean air.
If you’re selling your home, getting rid of cigarette odor should be at the top of your list. Open windows, deep clean carpets, and use fresh scents to clear the air. This will help your home smell better and could make it sell faster and for more money.
Food Odors
Moving on from cigarette smoke, let’s tackle food odors. Strong smells from cooking can turn off buyers. It’s a sure thing to avoid using strong spices or cooking fish before showing your home.
Here’s why: these scents stick around and can overpower the fresh smell you want to share.
Keep in mind, potential buyers might look inside your refrigerator. Make sure it smells clean and is free of bad odors. I once had a friend who lost a sale because the buyer found leftover fish in the fridge! Simple steps like cleaning out the fridge and avoiding certain foods can make a big difference when selling your house.
Garbage
Garbage smells bad. It turns buyers away from a house on the market. You must throw out the trash regularly to keep your home smelling fresh. Even one forgotten bag can fill your whole house with an unpleasant odor.
Next, check places around your home where smells hide. Look under sinks and in closets. Make sure these spots are clean and smell good too. Now let’s talk about pet odors….
Dirty Laundry
Dirty laundry can mess up your chance to sell your home. Sports gear, socks, and shoes often make this problem worse. They create bad smells that turn buyers away. If you’re selling your house, keep laundry clean and out of sight.
This makes sure your home smells fresh.
Homes with kids face a big challenge with dirty clothes causing odors. Always wash these items fast to avoid smells that can stop you from selling your house. Getting rid of the smell of dirty laundry helps you sell faster.
It’s a simple step but very important for making a good impression on potential buyers when they come to see the house.
Pets
Pets require additional attention to ensure your home maintains a pleasant aroma. Pet owners may not perceive their pets’ odors, but visitors likely will. Regularly clean your pet and its habitat.
This includes bathing them and maintaining cleanliness of litter boxes. Execute these tasks prior to potential buyers visiting your home, aiding in faster sales.
Off-putting pet odors can deter individuals. Consider the difference in appeal between an abode that boasts fresh fragrances as opposed to one that does not. By managing pet areas and frequently ventilating your home, you ensure that potential buyers’ lasting impressions would be based on your home’s aesthetic appeal rather than its olfactory one.
Subtle Use of Pleasant Scents During Showings
To sell your home faster, add gentle scents. Stay away from strong smells that can overwhelm. You want buyers to feel comfortable, not distracted.
Use scents like citrus or vanilla to keep the air fresh but not overpowering. Lavender and fresh linen are also great choices. They create a calm and inviting atmosphere, helping your home sell quickly.
Open windows before showings to let in fresh air. This mixes well with your chosen scent, keeping it subtle. Use a few diffusers around the house, but don’t overdo it.
A hint of pine or cinnamon can make a big difference. It adds to the atmosphere without taking over.
Your Open House Motivates Buyers – Smells That Sell Your House
Fragrances play a big role in selling houses. Aromas like citrus, vanilla, and pine make your home more appealing. They create a warm and inviting atmosphere for buyers.
On the other hand, bad smells from pets or waste can scare buyers away. Choose fragrances wisely during showings. Aim for a balance that’s enjoyable but not overwhelming.
This approach helps you make a great first impression every time. So, for a quick sale, remember these fragrance tips!
