Why Smells Matter When Selling Your Home

When potential buyers arrive to view your home, their first impression starts outside—with curb appeal. But the moment they step inside, that impression can shift instantly—and not always because of what they see. Scent plays a powerful role in how buyers perceive a home. Imagine being greeted by the fresh aroma of lilies or rose petals versus the musty smell of mildew or smoke. One invites them in, while the other sends them right back out the door.

In fact, discussions online often show that unpleasant odors like cigarette smoke, pet smells, or damp basements top the list of reasons buyers immediately lose interest in a property.

Smell and Memory Go Hand in Hand ✨

Scent is closely linked to memory and emotion. When buyers tour multiple homes in a day, a pleasant, neutral scent can help your home stand out for the right reasons. On the flip side, an unpleasant odor can leave a lasting negative impression.

According to research from Harvard Medicine, certain smells can trigger emotional memories that last for decades. Since buying a home is a deeply emotional experience, it’s worth making sure the scent in your home creates a positive connection.

Keep It Neutral 🌿

While lighting and staging are key, scent should not be overlooked. Sellers often try to create a “mood” using candles or essential oils, but not every buyer shares the same taste. The safest approach? Stick with light, clean, or neutral scents—or none at all.

Before a showing, open windows for 30 minutes (weather permitting) to let in fresh air. Avoid strong air fresheners or heavily scented candles, which can come across as overpowering or suspicious. Also, make sure trash and recycling bins are emptied throughout the home—including basements, closets, and laundry rooms.

Smell Check: Bathroom & Kitchen 🚿🍽️

These two rooms tend to hold onto odors the most and are often where buyers spend extra time.

Bathroom:

• Eliminate moisture-related smells.

• Remove used towels and laundry piles.

• Use fresh linens or keep it minimal for a clean, dry feel.

Kitchen:

• Take out trash and food waste.

• Clean countertops, sinks, and appliances.

• Run a quick “sniff test” on the garbage disposal and dishwasher.

• Avoid cooking anything with lingering scents before showings.

A tidy, fresh-smelling kitchen and bathroom can signal that the home is well cared for.

Pet Owners, Take Note 🐶🐱

We love our pets—but not every buyer will. Before showings, remove or clean pet beds, blankets, and toys. Vacuum thoroughly to minimize hair and dander, and empty litter boxes or pet bowls. Whenever possible, take pets out of the home during showings to reduce distractions and odors.

Other Sneaky Sources of Odor 🏠

Some smells are less obvious but just as off-putting:

• Old house smell: Often musty or dusty; improve ventilation and do a deep clean.

• Cooking odors: Garlic, onions, or fried foods can linger for hours—avoid before showings.

• Laundry areas: Damp towels or unwashed clothes can cause mildew-like scents.

• Garages & basements: Check for chemical or gasoline smells and ensure proper airflow.

  
  

Final Thoughts 💭

When it comes to selling your home, smell truly matters. You don’t need your space to smell like a luxury spa—just clean, fresh, and inviting. Fresh air and a good cleaning routine can make a huge difference.

A home that smells as good as it looks helps buyers picture themselves living there—and that can make all the difference between a “maybe” and a “sold.”