How to Choose the Right Fragrance for Your Open House

When preparing for an open house, one of the most important things to consider is the smell of your home. You want potential buyers to feel comfortable and welcome, so it’s important to choose the right fragrance.

In this article, we will cover the best fragrances to use at an open house so as not to offend or exacerbate scent sensitivities, as well as tips on how to make your home smell its best.

Less is More

When it comes to fragrance, less is usually more. You don’t want potential buyers to be overwhelmed by a strong scent, so it’s important to choose a light fragrance that won’t be too overpowering. Avoid using any fragrances that are heavy or have a strong alcohol content, as these can be overwhelming and potentially cause headaches.

And, be sure to keep it simple. Trying to mix too many scents can often result in a nauseating smell. In fact, research has shown that people buy more in the presence of a simple scent, like orange, than they do when there is a complex scent like an orange-mango ocean breeze.

Choose Natural Scents

When selecting a fragrance for your open house, try to stick with natural scents. Synthetic fragrances can be overwhelming and cause headaches or respiratory irritation. Essential oils, if done correctly, can be a great way to naturally scent your home.

Take Advantage of Human Olfactory Memory

Think about it from a psychological standpoint – certain scents can trigger happy memories, which in turn can make people feel good. This is why it’s important to choose a light, pleasant fragrance for your open house. You want potential buyers to associate your home with positive feelings.

Some great fragrances include:

• Coffee – The smell of coffee brewing is welcoming and inviting.
• Baked Goods – The scent of fresh-baked cookies or bread can make potential buyers feel at home.
• Chocolate – Chocolate has been shown to trigger positive emotions, so it’s a great choice for a home showing scent.
• Lemon – A light, citrusy fragrance can make a space feel clean and refreshing.
• Vanilla – A classic, comforting scent that can make potential buyers feel relaxed.
• Herbs – Rosemary, lavender, and basil are all great choices for an open house. Not only do they smell fantastic, but they also have antibacterial properties.

Scents to Avoid

There are some fragrances that you should avoid using at a home showing, as they can be offensive or exacerbate allergies and sensitivities.

• Cinnamon – This scent can trigger asthma attacks in some people.
• Pine – Pine is a strong, pungent fragrance that can be overwhelming.
• Mint – Mint is another strong fragrance that can be irritating to people with sensitivities.
• Floral – Some people are allergic to floral scents, so it’s best to avoid them.
• Musk – Musk can be a very strong fragrance, and some people find it unpleasant.

Diffuser Blends for Open Houses

Below are some diffuser blends that are perfect for home showings! Each recipe is for a 100ml diffuser, but can be easily scaled up or down depending on the size of your diffuser.

• Clean and Crisp: 3 drops citrus, 3 drops rosemary
• Warm and Inviting: 4 drops vanilla, 2 drops chocolate
• Fresh and Light: 3 drops lemon, 2 drops lavender
• Comforting and Calming: 3 drops chamomile, 3 drops lavender
• Uplifting and Energizing: 2 drops lemon, 2 drops grapefruit, 2 drops rosemary

What to Do if Your Guests Don’t Like the Scent You Chose

If you’re worried about guests not liking the scent you chose, there are a few things you can do.

First, make sure the area is well-ventilated. Even the most pleasant scent can quickly become overwhelming in a stuffy room. Second, don’t overdo it – start with a light fragrance and increase the strength if needed. It’s always easier to add more scent than it is to take it away.

Finally, have a few different scents on hand so you can change the tone if guests seem uncomfortable. This way, you can please everyone and make your open house a success!

Talk to Your Agent About Their Experience

Lastly, don’t forget to talk to your agent about their experiences with scents at open houses. They likely have a good idea of what works well and what doesn’t, so they can help you make the best decision for your situation.

Not working with an agent, yet? Let FastExpert help! We’ll match you with the perfect agent for your needs, absolutely free. Give it a try today!