You have only ONE chance to make a FIRST IMPRESSION!!!
It is called first impression because there is only one, the first one, and that's it!
The average buyers views home an average of 4 minutes, MAKE THOSE MINUTES COUNT!
Once the inital sight of house is past whether it be by photos on internet or driving by, the first
thing people notice is smell. I believe most people don't even realize that they are associating the house with smells, good or bad.
I have shown many houses, some of which the buyer did not even get past the first room and turned and walked out. In most cases, the seller lives in their home and does not even notice the smell. Here are some things to look out for.
Pet Odors
Garbage Odors
Last Night's Dinner
Smoke Odors
Musty Odors
Moldy or Mildew Odors
Is this what you want buyers to associate with your Home?
The same is true with making a good first impression. A clean home smells clean. I have a few tricks as well, I add carpet fresh in hidden places, nice but not too overwhelming. Or you can put cinnamon sticks in oven or microwave, or use citrus scents. I have even used those oil lamp burners/candles.
Remember, you don't have much time to grab their attention. The worst thing you can do is assume that the buyer can look past it. They can't look past it if they are smelling it! They can't look past it if they don't go all the way in! Don't let the buyer be turned off before they even get through the door. If you can, crate and take pets with you. Keep garbage out and away from house. Don't smoke in house or near entrance as you can smell from quite a distance. Keep house aired out. Spray some sort of freshners or burn candles when home or use the carpet fresh. Make sure your home smells good or inviting as well as looks good and you are sure to impress lookers and leave a lasting impression.
- Patti Duty
