A house with pets could be harder to sell – but this house could be even worse...

If you’re trying to sell your house – or looking to buy one – you need to know about third-hand smoke...

 A new study published in Tobacco Control found that new nonsmoking residents, who had moved into homes previously occupied by smokers, tested for higher levels of nicotine on their fingers and some other nicotine related substance in their urine. It’s one of the first things a realtor will ask a seller – and one of the first things most nonsmokers will notice about a house. Some third-hand smoke researchers advise against moving into smoker’s house, especially if you have young children, asthma or another respiratory illness.

If you are a smoker who’s selling – or just have to have that smoky house, there are a few things you can do about it. A fresh coat of paint is nice – but isn’t nearly enough. You’ll need to replace the main toxin reservoirs, which are the carpets, curtains wallpaper and upholstery. Consider having wood floors refinished and the air ducts, heating and AC equipment thoroughly cleaned. Otherwise – estimate what the cost of all that would be and factor that into the price.