The first 90 seconds of a home showing can quietly determine whether a buyer falls in love—or mentally checks out. Before square footage, price, or finishes fully register, buyers are reacting on a sensory level. What they see, smell, and feel in those opening moments sets the emotional tone for the entire walkthrough. This “walk-through script” breaks down exactly what buyers notice first—and how sellers can prepare their home to make those moments count.

Why the First 90 Seconds Matter So Much to Buyers

Buyers don’t walk into a home with a checklist—they walk in with instincts. Within moments, they subconsciously decide whether a space feels welcoming, comfortable, and worth further attention. When a home feels “right” early on, buyers become more forgiving later. When it doesn’t, even great features struggle to recover. Preparing for this initial window is one of the most effective home showing strategies sellers can use.

First Impressions Start at the Entryway

The entryway is your home’s handshake. It introduces the tone, style, and level of care throughout the property. Buyers immediately assess whether the space feels open, bright, and intentional.

To prepare your entryway for showings:

• Keep it uncluttered and visually calm

• Add one simple focal point, like artwork or a small table

• Ensure lighting is warm and inviting

A clean, thoughtfully styled entry signals that the rest of the home will be equally well maintained.

The Power of Scent During a Home Showing

Smell is one of the fastest ways buyers form emotional reactions. Unpleasant odors are difficult to overcome, but overly strong fragrances can be just as distracting. The goal is not to mask smells—it’s to create a clean, neutral environment.

Simple, effective scent strategies include:

• Thorough cleaning with lightly scented products

• Fresh air before showings

• Subtle, familiar smells like coffee or baked goods

Buyers should notice that the home smells clean, not scented.

Lighting: How Buyers Perceive Space Instantly

Lighting dramatically affects how buyers perceive size, warmth, and condition. Dark rooms feel smaller and less inviting, while well-lit spaces feel open and welcoming.

Before a showing:

• Open all curtains and blinds

• Turn on lights in every room

• Use a mix of ambient and accent lighting to soften shadows

Bright, balanced lighting helps buyers see the home’s full potential immediately.

Temperature Sets the Comfort Level

Temperature is often overlooked, but buyers notice it instantly. If a home feels too warm or too cold, discomfort can distract from everything else they see.

Aim for a neutral, comfortable temperature that makes buyers want to linger. A home that feels physically comfortable encourages emotional comfort—and longer showings.

Decluttering Signals Space and Luxury

Clutter doesn’t just make a home feel messy—it makes it feel smaller. In the first 90 seconds, buyers are scanning for space, flow, and ease of living.

Focus on:

• Clear countertops and surfaces

• Minimal décor with purpose

• Organized storage areas

A decluttered home feels calmer, more spacious, and more move-in ready.

Neutralizing Pet Signals for Wider Appeal

Pets are part of many households, but visible pet items or lingering odors can create hesitation for buyers. Even pet lovers want a home that feels clean and neutral.

Before showings:

• Remove pet bowls, toys, and beds

• Clean floors, carpets, and upholstery

• Ventilate the home thoroughly

The goal is to make the home appealing to the widest possible audience.

Final Thoughts: Make the First 90 Seconds Work for You

Buyers may spend 20 minutes touring a home, but their emotional decision often starts in the first minute and a half. By preparing intentionally—focusing on entryway impact, scent, lighting, comfort, and cleanliness—you control that critical first impression.

The best showings don’t feel staged or forced. They feel effortless, welcoming, and memorable. When the first 90 seconds are right, everything that follows has a better chance to shine.