3 Aromatic Scents to Make Your Open House Smell Great

The olfactory sense is a genius tool God provided to us. From the calming fragrance of freshly cut grass to the overwhelming scents in perfume stores, we have experienced it all. This olfactory tool is surprisingly useful in the real estate business, too!

I have repeatedly mentioned that first impressions matter when selling a home. While visual appeal is the dominant selling factor, scent is another powerful factor – an underdog that subtly and creatively rises to the occasion.

In my years in the homebuying business, I have found these three scents to be my absolute favorites for open houses. Since we cannot predict which scents would be the most popular amongst potential buyers, we stick with the safe and simple options.

These choices discreetly do their job, and there is no overwhelming aroma. And here are some details about them.

Vanilla

My respect for Vanilla as an aromatic scent stems from my wife. Vanilla is the all-star of her most cherished scents, and since living together for years, it has now become a part of my palette as well.

Here is how Vanilla scents could be a game-changer at open houses:

• You could use the old-school trick of a batch of freshly baked cookies. The fragrance is inviting and has a “feels like home” hint to it.
• Vanilla-scented candles are another way to harness the aroma. Place candles in the living room or the washrooms to create a cozy vibe.
• Another trick is to add vanilla to essential oil diffusers for a stronger impact. But be careful with the intensity.

At one of our friends’ open houses in Philly, we put vanilla-scented sachets in the air-conditioner that helped spread the gentle fragrance throughout the house. Our friend received compliments from almost every visitor on the aroma created inside the space.

Lavender

Lavender is renowned for its calming properties. The fragrance creates a relaxing environment, which is exactly what you would want when buyers come for an open house. I feel this scent “works wonders in spaces like the bedroom and the bathroom.”

In our experience, the lavender scent could be useful in the following ways:

• Dried lavender bouquets in vases have a dual impact – visual and olfactory. The visual appeal, in partnership with the subtle fragrance, gets the job done.
• I saw a real estate agent use lavender essential oil with distilled water in a spray bottle and spray it around the house. I disclosed the reasons why it smelled in certain parts of my home. He said it was the final step on his part before he let prospective buyers inside the house.
• Some agents tuck lavender-scented sachets in closets and storage spaces to ensure these overlooked spaces smell fresh, just in case curious buyers come by.

Initially, Lavender was not at the top of my list. But in recent years, I have learnt to appreciate the fragrance, as for me it was an acquired taste.

Citrus

Citrus scents such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit are generally associated with cleanliness. These fragrances brighten spaces and create a high-spirited atmosphere. That fresh hit of citrus zest is just what you need to feel fresh during the open house.

Here is why citrus scents made our list:

• Our cleaning staff shared that a DIY lemon spray is what makes our offices smell so great.
• Bowls of fresh oranges or lemons can be used as part of staging. Not only do they add visual appeal, but subtly enhance the scent.
• Diffusers with natural citrus oils are also used by many real estate agents to incorporate a fresh aroma at open houses.

How To Create A Balance of Scents?

While each of these three scents is impactful, it can get overstimulating if used improperly and at the same time. Here is what you do instead:

• Introduce vanilla in the bedroom and living spaces.
• Use the citrus fragrance in common areas and the entryway.
• Reserve lavender for quiet corners or the washrooms.

What Are The Common Mistakes With Scents

I would say that trial and error is the key. It took me a long time to understand and curate scents that were subtle, likable, and useful. It all comes down to your olfactory senses, but when it comes to open houses, it is better to be safe than sorry.

• Avoid overpowering scents.
• Do not be inconsistent with scents.
• Be mindful of potential allergies.

Use These Scents For Your Open House

Jon advises that “Creating a signature scent is not an easy task. You have to find the sweet spot.”

A balanced aroma could enhance the experience of prospective buyers and leave a lasting impression. I believe that “a welcoming fragrance is not just a detail, but a component of the overall experience that is the open house. So light that candle and spritz that spray, and watch buyers feel at home.”