The Nose Knows.....

In today's market, rampant with foreclosures and short sales, it is critical to appeal to ALL of the buyers senses. Not only is a buyer taking in properties visually, they also are making judgments with their noses. There is no point to viewing a property that has an unsavory smell because a buyer has most likely already emotionally checked out.

The whole point of staging is to try and sell a lifestyle to future buyers. If a buyer can smell mold or smoke, they are immediately put off. Smells are also signals to the buyer that the home isn't in pristine condition. This leaves buyers at an instant advantage because the perceived value of the property is decreased.

Here are some simple tips I use with my company, Garnish Home Staging and Design LLC, to help get rid of smells in a property:

- paint. A relatively easy and cost efficient means to freshen a space

- open windows. Homes that have been left vacant and abandoned often just need to be "aired" out

- diffuser. A simple and trendy way to help a space

- get rid of old carpet. This is often a breeding ground for dust mites, and old smells. Opt for an eco selection and get sustainable hardwood floors that can be resanded and kept for years

- have a mold inspection. This help to find the origin of the smell so that it can be addressed.

- clean. Especially for homes that are just listed, make sure they are sparkly!!!!