Home Selling Tip: Keep the Smoke Outside

When it comes to selling your home, buyers’ first impressions are critical for a quick sale. But, if they find that your home has been smoked in, that could be a deal breaker for them. Not only is the smell unpleasant, but the discolouration to the walls and ceilings can be difficult to remove and it can also damage a home’s HVAC system.

Smoking in your home can also reduce the value of your property. In fact, according to a 2013 Pfizer Canada survey of Ontario and Quebec real estate agents and brokers, it was found that smoking in the home lowers property values by up to 29%. In the same survey, an overwhelming majority of realtors also agreed that it’s more difficult to sell a home when it has been smoked in.

If you want to maintain a smoke-free home to protect your health and investment, here are some tips to consider:

1.    Institute a smoke-free policy in your home and let your friends and family know your wishes.

2.    Post a smoke-free sign on your front door and fridge to let people know that you do not allow smoking.

3.    Remove all ashtrays from inside your home, even decorative ones.

4.    Create a comfortable place to smoke outdoors – away from all entrances, vents, windows and play areas – and encourage your guests to use that space exclusively.

5.    Cut back. You may find that living in a smoke-free home presents fewer cues and reminders to smoke and that quitting could be much easier than it has been in the past.

In the event that you have smoked in your home or are interested in a property that smokers occupy, there are do-it-yourself solutions to help promote a cleaner and healthier environment. However, in extreme situations, a restoration company that specializes in the removal of odours may be required to achieve the best results.

For more home buying and selling tips, such as these, as well as the latest news and insight into Mississauga’s real estate market, be sure to follow along with me on Facebook. Or, if you are thinking of listing your home for sale, please contact me to schedule a free home evaluation.