"How Should Odor Concerns Be Handled During a Home Sale?"
“Buyers may forget a paint color, but they will remember a bad smell.”
This may sound minor, but it’s not. Odors, whether from pets, cooking, smoke, or moisture, create an immediate emotional reaction, and that reaction can make or break a buyer’s interest within seconds.
Here’s how we handle it professionally. First, we address any odor issues before the home hits the market—deep cleaning, carpet treatment or replacement, HVAC servicing, ventilation, and in some cases, ozone treatment. Buyers may overlook outdated finishes, but they rarely overlook smell.
Second, communication matters. If a buyer has a concern—especially something sensitive like odors—it should always be handled through the buyer’s agent to the listing agent. That keeps the process professional, avoids unnecessary tension, and protects the relationship with the seller so we can keep negotiations productive and moving forward.
Selling a home is emotional on both sides. My job is to help my sellers present their home in the best possible light, while managing communication in a way that keeps everyone focused on the goal, getting the home sold for the best possible price and terms.
Local Knowledge Isn’t Expensive…It’s Priceless!!!
Mike Brown | The Brown Team Real Estate Group I 760.822.8734
