Open houses and showings are the best ways to engage with potential buyers and get them to really imagine themselves in their potential future home. Keep reading for a checklist of last minute things to do before you open the doors.

Clean Up

I’m sure this goes without saying, but go over all surfaces once more to dust and do a last minute check. Small things can escape our attention, so be sure to catch them before you invite potential buyers in. Just be aware that strong smells like bleach or other powerful cleaners can be a turnoff for potential buyers. Lighter scents like floral or even scentless would be best.

Freshen Up

Make sure the house smells nice. Smell is our strongest sense when it comes to memory. Try this trick to make any home smell warm and inviting: take twoCAPFULLS (not cupfulls) of vanilla extract in an oven safe dish and put them in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about an hour. You can do this with any essential oil, but vanilla will make the home smell like fresh baked cookies and leave a lasting sensory memory with potential buyers.

Turn It Up

Nice, classical or jazz music playing softly in the background will put potential buyers at ease and provide a relaxing and inviting ambiance. Stick to instrumental and try to keep it consistent throughout the house.

Add Some Blooms

Splurge for some fresh flowers to add the warmth and freshness of the outside inside. For an extra punch, place them near windows and other features you’d like to highlight to draw the eye. They don’t have to be large, but opt for bright colors to add that pop and really attract attention.

It’s the small things that make a big impact, so ensure that you don’t miss out on the chance to really make an impression with potential buyers. With just a few touches, you’ll be sure to increase the chance to make a big sale.