When it comes to selling your home, of course you want to create the most inviting atmosphere possible. One of the most effective ways to do this is through scent! Realtors have suggested baking cookies or breads to provide a "homey" sense for potential buyers, but can you go too far?

Choosing the right scent can mean the difference between a warm, inviting home, and one that causes buyers to run for cover. Start by using scents that are subtle and universal. Scents such as citrus, lavender, and soft vanilla are all great options. Many brands have also created "fresh" scents that provide a clean smell that is pleasing as well.

Once you have picked your scent, you can place multiple candles or plug-in scents throughout the home, as desired. I prefer use the same scent everywhere to create a scent story, and avoid bringing attention to the smell as people roam through the property. Again, less is more when it comes to scent. I often opt for a bouquet of fresh flowers to add a hint of fragrance, as well as color.

Avoid strong candles like cinnamon, "cookie" or "baking" scents, or even pine. You want to accentuate the ambiance of the home, not jar your guests. Strong or over powering smells, can cause headaches for some folks. Also, keep in mind, some people may have allergies, that's why fresh air through open windows, is always a great choice in any home. Bottom line, we never want to taste the air freshener, that will have the opposite affect.

By thoughtfully incorporating scented candles into your open house: strategy, you not only enhance the beauty of your home, but also create a memorable and positive experience for potential buyers, increasing the likelihood of an offer. And as I ALWAYS say, a picture is worth a thousand words, but you can't smell it. If it looks clean, and its smells clean, it's CLEAN, and who wouldn't want that quality in their next home?