6 Smells That Could Sabotage Your Home Sale

The Westfield Team knows selling your home is a big deal, and we’re here to help you make it a success. One thing that can stop buyers in their tracks? Unpleasant odors. Smell is tied directly to memory and emotion, so a bad whiff can turn a dream home into a dealbreaker. Here are six smells that could scare off buyers—and our tips to keep your home smelling fresh and inviting.

1. Cooking Odors: Keep the Kitchen Neutral

We love a home-cooked meal as much as anyone, but strong cooking smells can be a major turn-off for buyers. Foods like fish, garlic, onions, cabbage, or curries can linger in the air, and what smells delicious to you might be off-putting to someone else. Even “safe” scents like cinnamon can bother some folks—trust us, we’ve heard it all!

Westfield’s Tip: Avoid cooking pungent foods while your home is on the market. If you must cook, stick to mild flavors and ventilate well. Run the exhaust fan, open windows, and take out the kitchen trash before showings to keep things fresh.

2. Smoke: Clear the Air

Whether it’s from cigarettes, cigars, or even a backyard BBQ, smoke odors cling to everything—curtains, carpets, even walls. Many buyers, including non-smokers, are sensitive to smoke, and it can make them question the home’s condition. Lingering smoke smells are a guaranteed way to lose interest fast.

Westfield’s Tip: If you smoke, do it outside and far from open windows or doors. Wash surfaces, curtains, and upholstery to remove odors. For tough cases, consider hiring a professional odor removal service to ensure your home smells clean. Air purifiers can also help keep the air crisp.

3. Pet Odors: Love Your Pets, Lose the Smell

Pets are family, and we get it—our team at Westfield includes plenty of pet lovers! But pet odors, from litter boxes to wet dog smells, can be a dealbreaker. Some buyers may even worry about allergies, making them hesitant to linger.

Westfield’s Tip: Clean pet areas daily, including litter boxes, cages, and bedding. Vacuum regularly to remove dander, and consider storing pet items out of sight during showings. A deep carpet clean can work wonders. If possible, have pets stay with a friend or family member during open houses.

4. Mold and Mildew: Tackle Dampness Early

Mold and mildew smells scream “problem” to buyers, hinting at potential water damage or maintenance issues. Even in Westfield’s relatively dry climate, heavy rains or poor ventilation can lead to musty odors, especially in basements or bathrooms.

Westfield’s Tip: Keep drains clear by flushing with hot water weekly. Clean bathrooms with disinfecting products, but go easy—too much bleach can be overwhelming. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas and fix any leaks promptly. If mold is a concern, call in a professional to assess and remediate.

5. Overpowering Cleaning Chemicals: Less Is More

A clean home is a must, but a house that reeks of bleach or ammonia can raise red flags. Buyers might wonder what you’re trying to hide, and strong chemical smells can be just as off-putting as dirt.

Westfield’s Tip: Stick to mild, unscented cleaning products for showings. After cleaning, air out the house to let natural freshness take over. A light, clean scent signals a well-maintained home without overwhelming sensitive noses.

6. Heavy Fragrances: Don’t Overdo the Scents

Candles, plug-ins, and air fresheners can make your home smell great, but too many competing fragrances can backfire. Strong floral, citrus, or sweet scents might distract buyers or make them suspicious of what’s being masked. Subtlety is key.

Westfield’s Tip: Choose one simple, clean scent—like fresh linen or light citrus—and use it sparingly. Avoid mixing fragrances, and skip heavy floral or dessert-like scents. Open windows for fresh air whenever possible, as it’s the scent buyers love most.

Ready to Sell? Let the Westfield Team Help!

Yes, the Westfield Team is passionate about helping you sell your home quickly, avoiding simple things such as smells that could sabotage your home sale, and for top dollar. Avoiding these six smells is a great start, but we’ve got plenty more tips to share. Contact Shanna & Katherine today to learn about our tailored services for home sellers, and don’t forget to request our free Seller’s Guide for expert advice on prepping your home for the market. Let’s make your sale a sweet success!