One old real estate agent’s trick suggests baking cookies or bread to create a welcoming scent. On the opposite end of the nasal spectrum, certain odors are an immediate turn-off for prospective buyers. If something stinks, it could be a sign of a problem with the property. Here are four smells that can interfere with an open house. Before you open the doors to anyone, ensure you take care of these foul aromas.

Sewage Smells

Sewage smells, usually notable for smelling like rotten eggs or cabbage, occur for any number of reasons. Some sources of sewage gas are more difficult to fix. Repairing a broken sewage line offers several challenges, for example. But many sources of sewer smells are easier to address. Check the bases of the toilets. They may be cracking and breaking, which allows bad smells to creep in. Clogged or cracked pipes can allow the smell to back up into the home, so keep them clear. Over time, clean-out plugs can crack or fall off, so have a plumber recap any exposed sewer pipes, and the smell should dissipate.

Pet Smells

Households that allow their furry and feathered friends too much free rein may smell of animal urine and feces. Unattended litter boxes and cages can emit wretched smells that get into the walls, carpeting, furniture, and elsewhere as well. The best thing to do before an open house is to get the critters outside and subject the place to deep cleaning. Focus on fabrics, running them through the wash or employing an enzyme cleaner. Enzyme cleaners are great for breaking down the chemicals that create that terrible stink. And don’t ignore the yard in case pets leave any “presents.”

Food Scents

Some people love the smell of spicy and seasoned foods, but not everyone. You should create a more neutral smell by advising clients to avoid cooking anything too potent or fragrant in the week leading up to the open house. Deep cleaning the house should keep things smelling fresh, allowing potential buyers to imagine making the home their own. Baking soda and other techniques can further neutralize any excessively strong odors.

Tobacco

Fewer people smoke these days, and there’s less tolerance for the gagging stink of old tobacco smoke. Getting the smell of tobacco out of a house can be a real chore since the smoke tends to permeate everything over time, from fabrics to paint and wallpaper. Tobacco also discolors, leaving a sickly yellow or brown tinge to everything. A deep cleaning may not be enough to eliminate the odor. Rug shampooing or, better yet, removal is a good choice. And after that, the walls and ceilings will probably need a fresh coat of paint.

Those are just four smells that can interfere with an open house. Besides cleaning, always remember to air out a place before a showing, no matter the weather. Fresh air is better than any chemical air freshener!