First impressions are everything—especially when it comes to selling a home. Open homes are a crucial moment in the sales process, giving potential buyers their first real glimpse into the lifestyle a property promises. But while sellers may spend days cleaning and decluttering, what buyers truly notice often goes beyond surface tidiness. Understanding what stands out most to buyers during an open home can significantly impact how a property is perceived—and ultimately, how quickly it sells.
The Power of Presentation
Buyers aren’t just looking for a house—they’re envisioning a home. This is where property styling comes into play. Professionally styled homes can feel more aspirational and inviting, helping viewers imagine themselves living there. Furniture placement, colour palettes and even artwork choices can subtly influence emotions and first impressions.
Even the flow of a room can affect a buyer’s sense of space. Overcrowded areas or oddly positioned furniture can disrupt the perception of room size. On the other hand, well-styled interiors highlight the best features of a home, such as natural light, high ceilings or a spacious layout.
Smell, Sound, and Temperature
Sensory experiences have a surprising influence on how a home is judged. A property might look immaculate, but if there’s a faint odour of pets or mildew, it can be off-putting. Scented candles or freshly baked cookies may sound cliché, but they create an inviting atmosphere that lingers in buyers’ memories.
Sound is another subtle yet powerful factor. Background noise from traffic or neighbours can be a red flag, especially if the windows are open. Sellers should ensure all windows and doors are well sealed and consider soft background music during inspections.
Temperature also plays a role. A home that’s too hot or too cold during a visit can give the impression that the property is difficult to keep comfortable. Ideally, the home should be climate-controlled to demonstrate how easily the temperature can be maintained.
Cleanliness vs. Clutter
Cleanliness might seem like a no-brainer, but there’s a distinct difference between a clean home and a clutter-free one. Buyers expect clean surfaces, floors, and fixtures—but they also want to see clear countertops, organised shelves, and minimal personal items. Clutter distracts from the property’s features and makes spaces feel smaller.
It’s also worth noting that cleanliness applies outside the home too. Overgrown gardens, dirty windows or chipped paint can give the impression that a property hasn’t been well cared for. A tidy exterior sets the tone for what buyers can expect inside.
In fact, as highlighted in a Forbes article, signs of deferred maintenance—like worn roof shingles or chipping paint—can signal deeper issues to buyers, even if the home’s interior looks polished. These subtle red flags can undermine confidence in the overall condition of the property.
Storage and Space
One of the most common things buyers inspect is storage. They’ll open wardrobes, peek inside linen closets, and gauge whether the kitchen has enough cabinetry. This is why it’s critical to declutter storage areas before an open home. An overflowing cupboard gives the impression there’s insufficient storage space.
Strategic furniture hire can be used to highlight the spaciousness of a room without overcrowding it. For example, opting for a queen bed over a king can help a bedroom appear more spacious, while clever furniture arrangements can emphasise open-plan living areas.
Emotional Connection
Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of an open home is the emotional connection. Buyers may not remember the specifics of the floorplan or the kitchen appliances, but they will remember how the home made them feel. Creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere is essential. Thoughtful touches like fresh flowers, neutral décor and comfortable furnishings help make a house feel like a potential home.
It’s not about impressing with extravagance but about cultivating a sense of comfort and possibility. When buyers can imagine themselves relaxing in the lounge or hosting dinner in the dining room, you know the styling has done its job.
Why Professional Styling Makes the Difference
While some homeowners attempt to stage properties themselves, professional stylists bring an objective eye and industry expertise. They understand buyer psychology and use proven techniques to present homes in the best light. From choosing the right furniture size to understanding current market trends, their insight can make a significant difference in how a property performs at open homes.
For those who don’t want to invest in buying new pieces, property furniture rental offers a flexible solution. Companies like Huntley + Co specialise in helping homeowners and agents transform spaces with high-quality, on-trend furniture that elevates presentation and boosts buyer interest.
Selling a Lifestyle
An open home isn’t just about showing off square footage or renovated bathrooms—it’s about selling a lifestyle. Buyers notice much more than sellers might realise, from scent and lighting to emotional resonance. By understanding what truly influences buyer perception and embracing the expertise of professional styling, sellers can set their property apart in a competitive market.
A carefully styled and well-prepared home doesn’t just attract more interest; it creates emotional engagement and a lasting impression—two things every serious buyer is searching for.
