Do You Hear What I Hear? Noise vs. Calm Music

If your home setting provides restful quiet, emphasize this benefit by not having conflicting TVs or music playing. On the other hand, if outside noise is a problem, mask with appropriate sounds. Gentle waterfalls and oscillating fans add coolness while covering traffic noises. Crackling fires add warmth as their sound conveys relaxation and distracts from the disturbance of barking dogs. Your selling season will determine the selected sounds, just as it influences the scents you employ.

When choosing music, consider your target buyer’s possible taste. If your prospective buyer is a first-time home buyer, play unobtrusive alternative type music. If your buyer is moving up, play soft pop without lyrics or soft jazz. Popular movie soundtracks also serve as a versatile source of music. These familiar types of music lend class to the setting while encouraging the buyer to walk sprightly and hum along. This music makes your buyer feel happy.

If your home is large, you can play different music in different spaces. For instance, in the main bedroom you might play romantic songs, while the family room might call for soft rock. We play a rainforest CD in our spa settings to convey the luxurious feeling of tropical escape.

c. Copyright 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher