Selling your home can be a stressful and overwhelming process, with many factors to consider to ensure you get the best possible outcome. One key aspect that can make a huge difference is the smell of your home. Have you ever walked into a home and immediately been hit with an unpleasant odour? Well, you're not alone. Many potential buyers are turned off by the smell of pets, smoke, or just general uncleanliness. In fact, it's one of the biggest turn-offs for home buyers.

As the saying goes, first impressions are everything, and when it comes to selling your home, the first thing that buyers are going to register when they walk through the door is with their nose. So, it's crucial to make sure that your home smells fresh and clean.

If you have pets, it's especially important to take extra care to clean any areas they may have marked or left odours. It can be easy to become nose-blind to our furry friends, so ask a friend or your real estate agent to give your home a sniff test and let you know if there are any odours that need to be addressed.

Another big no-no when it comes to odours is smoking inside the home. Cigarette smoke leaves a lingering odour that can be difficult to eliminate, even with extensive cleaning. This odour can be a major turn-off for potential buyers and may detract from the overall appeal of your home. Ensure any smokers do so outside to keep your home odour-free and prevent you from having to spend endless hours trying to remove the smell when you're ready to sell.

Top tips for cleaning your home before your first home open:

1. Pay special attention to areas that tend to accumulate odours such as the kitchen, bathroom, and carpets.
2. Avoid cooking strong-smelling foods before a home open.
3. Keep pets clean and groomed, and make sure their bedding and litter boxes are regularly cleaned.
4. Use air fresheners or essential oils sparingly and opt for natural scents that aren't overpowering.
5. Open windows and let fresh air circulate throughout your home.
6. Avoid smoking indoors and opt to step outside for a smoke break.
7. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service if you don't have the time or energy to do a deep clean yourself.
8. Ask a friend or your real estate agent for an honest opinion on the smell of your home. They may be able to detect odours that you're not aware of and help you take care of them before potential buyers arrive.

So, in a nutshell, the smell of your home can really impact how potential buyers view your property. You want to make sure you put your best foot forward and give off a positive first impression. By giving your home a good scrub and addressing any unwanted odours, you can create a clean and inviting atmosphere that could result in a better offer. Don't skimp on the cleaning, take your time, and make sure your home is looking and smelling its best. After all, a little extra effort could make a big difference in the sale of your home!