BAD SMELLS
Take the trash out. It's simple, but it can make a big difference. Sellers need to empty all garbage cans often in the home.
Snuff out the smoke. Sellers need to eliminate all smoking inside and even outside, particularly when the doors or windows are open. An ionizer can help remove smoke smells.
Watch the cooking. The smell of broccoli, garlic and fish can stick around long after the food has been eaten. Refrain from cooking those foods with strong odors.
Wash Fido. Pets can be a big source of smells. Limit the pet to an outdoor area or a certain room in the house that can be regularly cleaned. Clean the pet's bedding regularly. Vacuum carpets and furniture.
GOOD SMELLS
Put a beer in the oven on low and it will smell like you're baking fresh bread.
Heat up some water and throw fresh cinnamon into it. Turn it off just before the buyers come. They'll think that you baked cookies for them.
I use an odor eliminator called a PureAyre that smells like mint. The product can be "injected" into furniture or carpets. It can also be sprayed into the air. When buyers come into a home, many are turned off by the smell of air fresheners or candles. Smart buyers know these are old ticks used to cover up smells, not eliminate them.
