On the Nose – The Art of Common Scents
When preparing your home for sale, it’s easy to focus on the visual appeal—decluttering, styling, fresh paint. But one of the most powerful (and often underestimated) tools in creating a lasting first impression is scent. The right fragrance can elevate a buyer’s emotional response the moment they step through the door. However, it’s not just about making a home “smell nice.” In fact, trying to overpower odours with strong fragrances can have the opposite effect. Instead, the goal is to create a clean, calm
Subtle Scents Say ‘Clean’, Not ‘Covered Up’
Buyers are highly sensitive to smell, and strong artificial fragrances can raise red flags. Overly scented rooms can give the impression you’re hiding something, such as mould, pet smells, or smoke. Subtle, natural fragrances, on the other hand, suggest that the home is genuinely fresh and well-maintained.
A gentle citrus or soft herbal note tells buyers the space is clean without trying too hard. It helps them relax, take in their surroundings, and picture themselves living there—without being distracted or overwhelmed.
Natural Over Artificial, Always
Skip the heavy plug-ins and synthetic sprays. Instead, opt for essential oil diffusers, beeswax or soy candles, or lightly scented linen mists. These offer a gentle, layered fragrance that lingers just enough to be noticed, but never overwhelms.
Scents like lemon, eucalyptus, lavender, and vanilla are popular because they evoke comfort, calm, and cleanliness—the very feelings you want buyers to associate with your home.
Final Tip: Scent Should Be an Accent, Not a Statement
A great scent complements your home, it doesn’t dominate it. Keep it light, fresh, and intentional. When done right, scent can become the invisible thread that ties together the buyer’s entire experience, making your property feel just right—and completely unforgettable.