The sweet smell of success: Why scent matters when selling your home
When preparing your property for sale, it’s easy to focus on the visual aspects-fresh paint, tidy gardens, and stylish décor. Yet, there’s another powerful tool at your disposal that’s often overlooked: the scent of your home.
At By Design, we know that first impressions count, and nothing welcomes a potential buyer quite like a fresh, inviting fragrance.
The science behind scent
Our sense of smell is deeply connected to memory and emotion. Studies have shown that using ambient scents can enhance wellbeing, settle nerves, and make people feel more comfortable in a space. This is particularly important during property viewings, as buyers are often making one of the biggest decisions of their lives. A welcoming scent can help them feel at home, making your property stand out in their minds long after the viewing has ended.
Scents that sell
So, which fragrances work best? Experts recommend keeping things simple and clean. Citrus, pine, vanilla, and gentle floral notes are known to evoke positive emotions and are generally well-received by most people. Jasmine, for example, is said to calm nerves, while natural pine can bring a sense of freshness and wellbeing. The key is subtlety-a strong or overpowering scent can be just as off-putting as an unpleasant one.
Fresh air is often the most appealing “scent” of all. Opening windows before a viewing can help to dispel any lingering odours and create a crisp, clean atmosphere. If you do choose to enhance your home’s aroma, opt for lightly-scented candles, diffusers, or even a vase of fresh flowers.
Scents to avoid
Just as a pleasant fragrance can help sell your home, certain smells can quickly send buyers running for the hills. Cigarette smoke tops the list of deal-breakers, with nearly a quarter of buyers saying it would deter them from purchasing an otherwise perfect property. Blocked drains, general rubbish, pet odours, and strong cooking smells-like fish or spicy foods-are also major turn-offs. Even the faint whiff of dirty laundry can leave a negative impression.
Scent and perceived value
It’s not just about making your home smell nice; the right scent can actually enhance the perceived quality and value of your property. Research shows that buyers are more likely to view a home as well-maintained and higher quality if it smells pleasant. In fact, an appealing aroma can make your property more memorable and may even encourage higher offers.
Tips for sellers
- Air out your home before every viewing.
- Neutralise odours from pets, cooking, and bins.
- Choose subtle, fresh scents-think citrus, pine, or light florals.
- Avoid artificial fragrances that could be overwhelming.
- Trust your own nose: if you notice something unpleasant, so will your buyers.
At By Design, we believe that selling your home is about creating a complete sensory experience. By paying attention to scent, you can help buyers feel comfortable, welcome, and ready to make your property their own. After all, a home that smells right just feels right
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