February 26th, 2026 8:13 AM by Kelsey Bergey & Roxanne Johnson
When buyers walk into a home, they’re not immediately calculating square footage or analyzing layout.
They’re feeling something.
In fact, most buyers form an impression within the first 60 seconds — often before they’ve even made it past the entryway. And that first impression can quietly shape how they view the rest of the showing.
The good news? The things buyers notice first are usually simple — and very fixable.
Here’s what stands out right away.
Before buyers consciously “look” at anything, they notice scent.
Musty air, pet odors, heavy candles, or strong cleaning products can immediately distract from the home itself. Even if the home is beautiful, an off-putting smell lingers in memory.
A neutral, fresh (not fragranced) environment allows buyers to focus on the space — not the scent.
Light affects mood instantly.
Are the blinds open? Are light bulbs working? Does the home feel bright and welcoming or dim and closed off?
Natural light especially creates an emotional response. A well-lit home feels more spacious, cheerful, and inviting — even if the layout hasn’t changed.
Buyers need to imagine their life in the space.
Crowded countertops, oversized furniture, busy wall décor, and overflowing storage areas can make rooms feel smaller and harder to visualize. When there’s too much visual distraction, buyers mentally check out.
Less truly is more when preparing a home to sell.
The front door, flooring, and overall tidiness of the entry area quietly communicate how the home has been cared for.
Scuffed trim, worn rugs, or a cluttered drop zone don’t mean a home isn’t wonderful — but they do send subtle signals about maintenance and upkeep.
A clean, simple, welcoming entry sets a positive tone for everything that follows.
Loose handles. Chipped paint. Sticky doors. Minor scuffs.
Individually, these things may seem small. But collectively, they influence how buyers perceive the overall condition of a home.
When details are addressed, buyers feel confident. When details are ignored, they start to wonder what else might have been overlooked.
Preparing a home for sale isn’t about making it brand new or fully remodeled.
It’s about creating an environment that feels clean, maintained, and welcoming from the moment someone walks through the door.
And most of what shapes that first 60 seconds is manageable with thoughtful preparation — not major renovations.
If selling is on your radar this year, having a clear plan for what actually matters (and what doesn’t) can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. I’m always happy to walk through your home and help you prioritize the improvements that will make the biggest impact in our local market.