A fresh coat of paint does more than brighten up the space--it can also act as a freshener for walls. However, you should wipe down the walls beforehand to remove as much of the smell as possible. Otherwise, the scent will still be lingering beneath the fresh paint. This is true especially if the odors are caused by tobacco smoke. Tip: If you're renting a home or apartment, you'll need to seek permission from your landlord before painting the walls.