Thinking about putting your house on the market? The to-do list can seem endless: decluttering, painting, repairing, landscaping… it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if I told you there’s one simple, often overlooked task that can have a huge impact on how buyers perceive your home?

It’s all about the senses, and specifically, the sense of smell.

We’ve all walked into a home and been hit with a distinct scent—good or bad. A pleasant aroma can make a house feel warm, welcoming, and clean, while an unpleasant one can instantly turn a buyer off, even if they can’t quite put their finger on why.

The Tip: Take Your Scent Cues from a High-End Hotel Lobby.

Think about it: have you ever been in a luxury hotel and noticed an overpowering floral or overly sweet scent? Probably not. The goal isn’t to blast buyers with a strong fragrance, but to create an atmosphere of subtle, sophisticated cleanliness.

Here’s how to achieve this:

1. Eliminate, Don’t Mask: Before you do anything else, identify and eliminate any sources of bad odors. This means cleaning out the fridge, taking out the trash daily, and thoroughly cleaning carpets and upholstery (especially if you have pets). Open windows for an hour or two to let in fresh air.
2. Choose a “Clean” Scent: Avoid strong, cloying scents like cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or heavy florals. Instead, opt for light, fresh, and neutral fragrances. Think linen, cotton, sea salt, or a subtle citrus. These scents don’t scream “perfume” but rather “this house is meticulously clean and well-cared for.”
3. Go Subtle: A subtle scent is key. A single reed diffuser in a central location (like the entryway or living room) is often all you need. You can also use a light room spray about 30 minutes before a showing, or even a simple bowl of lemons and fresh herbs on the kitchen counter.
4. Don’t Forget the Details: While you’re at it, make sure the house looks as good as it smells. Fresh towels in the bathroom, a neatly made bed, and a sparkling kitchen sink all contribute to that “clean and move-in ready” feel.

A clean-smelling home isn’t just about covering up odors; it’s about making buyers feel comfortable and confident in their potential new home. It suggests that the current owners have taken great care of the property, which in turn builds trust and makes the house more appealing.

So, as you work your way through your to-do list, don’t forget this simple but powerful tip. It’s a small effort that can lead to a huge payoff.