Charcoal is Not Just for BBQ's ....

   There are some things that you have done for so long you forget how you learned about them....and the use of charcoal is one of those for us.

    There are times when we list an estate or you may have a listing of a property that is not a primary residence or one that has not been open for a while...a snowbird refuge.  The stale air trapped in the house hangs heavily like a dark cloud...AND it clouds the senses of all who enter.

    There are the very obvious things that you can do....open windows, add a screen to the doors and let the fresh air in...bring in a dehumidifier...

    Be oh so careful that flowery fresheners are not the "cure" as they too can be overwhelming ...and allergy arousing for potential buyers and their agents. Like perfume...one scent that is pleasing to one person is annoying to another.

    If you have ever been in a property that has been closed up for a while ...and found this issue...which only gets more severe when you open cabinets, closets and drawers and the trapped air wafts through the room...you know how unpleasant that can be....it doesn't mean the house is dirty...neglected...in poor condition...but this overwhelming odor can take over and when the "nose knows" it is a detriment to further pursuit of that house as a new home for a buyer.

   Of course...the common sense approaches of removing things that hold odors...heavy window treatments...a deep cleaning, carpet shampooing and fresh paint help of course.

     Another thing that is easy...inexpensive and very worthwhile is crumbling charcoal briquets and putting them in closets, cabinets...and open in rooms (removed before you begin showings of course) .This charcoal "filter" absorbs odors without covering them with an overwhelming scent.  In the midwest and northern states this may be more of a seasonal item and we always have a bag on hand to be used in houses regardless of the season.

    The "nose knows" and now you know it too...one more 

tool to make that house a more attractive choice to call

home !

    If you or anyone you know is looking to sell or buy a home in southeastern Wisconsin....call the Hansons, we are honored to be service for all things real estate.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS