Buyers shop with their eyes—and their emotions. Don’t leave the wrong first impression.

Selling a home is more than just putting a sign in the yard—it’s about creating the right experience for buyers the moment they walk in the door. And one of the biggest mistakes sellers make is not preparing the home properly before each showing.

Yes, of course it should be clean, decluttered, and tidy. That’s a given. But that’s just the starting point.

Here’s what makes a huge difference:

• Turn on every light in the house
• Open all blinds and curtains
• If the weather’s nice, crack a few windows to let in fresh air

Bright homes feel bigger, more cheerful, and more welcoming. It makes buyers feel good. And when people feel good in a home, they’re more likely to imagine themselves living there—which means they’re more likely to make an offer.

Also, don’t leave the agent fumbling for light switches in the dark—it makes the showing feel awkward and makes them look unprepared. That hurts your chances more than you realize.

Bonus Tip: Skip the air fresheners.

We know the old tricks—vanilla-scented candles, plug-ins, baking cookies. But most buyers these days catch on to that fast. And when it feels like you’re covering something up, it can backfire.

Instead, stick with fresh air. Every home has a smell, even if you don’t notice it anymore. Letting in a breeze before a showing helps the home feel clean and natural without raising red flags.

House Karma Tip:

Before every showing, do a quick 5-minute prep:

• Lights on
• Shades and blinds up
• Windows open slightly (weather permitting)
• Step out and let buyers take it in

Little things make a big emotional difference—and emotion sells homes.