The smell of a home influences much more than it seems. A house may have good light, be tidy and look attractive in photos, but if there is an unpleasant smell when entering, the impression changes immediately.

During a viewing, the buyer not only looks at the layout or condition of the property. They also notice the atmosphere. If the house smells closed up, damp, of pipes or pets, it can create doubts about maintenance, even if the problem is easy to solve.

Why a home can have bad smells

A bad smell does not always mean the property is dirty. It often appears because of lack of ventilation, humidity, textiles that absorb smells, wardrobes closed for a long time, drains, kitchen, pets or unused rooms.

In coastal homes this is quite common. Many houses remain closed for weeks or months, especially if they are a second residence. Without constant ventilation, they can accumulate damp or closed-house smells.

Before showing a property, it is advisable to open it in advance, ventilate it well and check which areas may be creating that feeling.

What works best to improve the atmosphere

The most important thing is not to hide the smell, but to find where it comes from. Using very strong air fresheners can give the feeling that someone is trying to hide a problem.

What usually works best is ventilating, cleaning textiles, checking bathrooms and kitchen, inspecting drains and letting in natural light. Soft and natural aromas also help, as long as they are not too intense.

How this affects Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida

In areas such as Torrevieja, Pilar de la Horadada, Orihuela Costa, San Pedro del Pinatar or La Manga del Mar Menor, many properties are used as second residences or remain closed for periods of time.

This makes ventilation especially important. A property may be in good condition, but if it smells closed up when entering, the buyer may interpret it as poor maintenance.

In our area, where many buyers look for a comfortable home, bright and ready to enjoy, the feeling of freshness adds a lot during the viewing.

Can it really influence the sale

Sometimes it does not only affect the viewing, it can also influence the negotiation. If the buyer believes there is humidity, bad pipes or hidden problems, they may try to lower the price or directly reject the property. On the other hand, a property that smells good conveys cleanliness, care and confidence.

Does it cost a lot to solve it

Normally not. In many cases it is enough to act before the viewing: ventilate, clean curtains and sofas, check wardrobes, remove accumulated humidity and inspect bathrooms or kitchen.

If the smell comes from a leak, real humidity or pipes, then it is advisable to solve it before showing the property. Painting or using perfume without fixing the source only delays the problem.

What buyers look for today

The current buyer looks for a property that gives confidence from the very first moment. They do not only look at square metres, price or location. They also value whether the house feels cared for, comfortable and ready to live in.

At Munfort we help property owners in Costa Blanca South and Costa Cálida prepare their property before going on the market, taking care of those details that can make a difference during the viewing and in the final result of the sale.