In the US, sage smudges are usually with incense and candles in a store, so if you're not seeing them when you shop for those things, maybe they're not available where you are.
It sounds to me like you're already doing all the right things. I think the smell issue will be gone within a few weeks of you living there, moving air in and out, and cooking in the place. If that's not soon enough, I think your original plan of candles is probably the best one.
deleted by creator
In the US, sage smudges are usually with incense and candles in a store, so if you're not seeing them when you shop for those things, maybe they're not available where you are.
It sounds to me like you're already doing all the right things. I think the smell issue will be gone within a few weeks of you living there, moving air in and out, and cooking in the place. If that's not soon enough, I think your original plan of candles is probably the best one.