Tips for Selling a House - Eliminating Odors

That may sound obvious but when you live in a home, you become accustomed to the way it smells and may not be aware of a bad odor. Recently, I showed a house that smelled so badly of garbage when I opened the door, I was hesitant to show it. The worst thing was that it was occupied by a REALTOR.

It's hard for your REALTOR to tell you your house smells because he/she may be afraid of offending you and alienating you. It's hard for your friends to be honest because they don't want to hurt your feelings or be the messanger who was shot. I'd ask my sister because I know she would be honest with me. Also a parent or child may lay it all out. If that's not an option ask a neighbor or friend and explain how important it is that you eliminate any foul odors.

Obvious things that cause odors offensive to buyers are:
smoking - please don't smoke in your house. It can take removal of carpeting, drapes and fresh paint to clear this out.
pets - most of us have them but keep the pet areas cleaned, the pets cleaned and the litter box should be cleaned daily.
garbage - take it out before leaving the house or a showing just to be sure.
diapers - again, take it out before leaving the house or a showing just to be sure.
musty from being closed up - common in older homes. Clean it out and air it out.
Less obvious things:
disposer - Run it regularly, flush with soapy water and or grind citrus peeling for a fresh sent. I suspect this was the problem in the house I showed. If you don't run it often, food is rotting down there.
fertiizer in the garage - this also has a garbage smell. Move it to a far corner of the yard or dispose of it when trying to sell.

After eliminating the thing that is causing the odor, air out you house to clear and freshen the air.

I want to be your REALTOR. If you are thinking of selling a house, give me a call. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have about the seller's disclosure or other matters involving selling a home. 512. 589.7988.

If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home in Austin, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com

Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
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