Paint Colors That Will Boost Home Value

As the founder of the Tim M. Clarke Team, one of the top real estate teams in the Raleigh-Durham market, I've seen my fair share of homes transformed by the power of paint. With 17 years of experience under my belt, I can tell you that choosing the right paint colors can make a world of difference when it comes to boosting your home's value. Let's dive into the world of hues and shades that can turn your property into a hot commodity.

The Power of Color in Home Selling

First Impressions Matter

You know what they say - you never get a second chance to make a first impression. This couldn't be truer when it comes to selling your home. The moment a potential buyer walks through your door, they're forming opinions that could make or break the sale.

Color psychology plays a huge role in how we perceive spaces. Warm colors like reds and oranges can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, while cool colors like blues and greens can promote a sense of calm and relaxation. As a real estate agent, I've seen buyers' eyes light up when they walk into a room painted in just the right shade.

The colors you choose can significantly impact how buyers perceive your home. A bright yellow kitchen might seem cheery to you, but it could be overwhelming to potential buyers. On the other hand, a soft grey living room can create a sense of sophistication and allow buyers to imagine their own furniture and decor in the space.

The Impact of Paint on Home Value

Let's talk numbers. The right paint colors can do more than just make your home look pretty - they can actually increase its value.

According to a Zillow study, homes with light blue bathrooms sold for an average of $5,440 more than expected. Meanwhile, homes with white exteriors sold for $3,814 more. These aren't small potatoes, folks!

Painting is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make to your home. On average, a fresh coat of paint can yield a 107% return on investment. That means you're not just recouping your costs - you're actually making money!

Best Interior Paint Colors for Resale

Now that we've established the importance of color, let's talk about which specific shades can help sell your home faster and for more money.

Neutral Tones: The Safe Bet

When in doubt, go neutral. Neutral colors provide a blank canvas that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

You can't go wrong with white. Benjamin Moore's "White Dove" is a personal favorite of mine. It's warm without being yellow and crisp without being stark. It's the Goldilocks of whites - just right.

Greige - that perfect blend of grey and beige - is still going strong in the real estate market. Sherwin-Williams' "Agreeable Gray" is a crowd-pleaser that works well in any room.

Living Room Colors

The living room is often the heart of the home, so choosing the right color here is crucial.

Soft, muted blues and greens can create a calming atmosphere in the living room. Benjamin Moore's "Palladian Blue" is a beautiful option that adds a touch of color without being overwhelming.

Warm neutrals like taupe or light brown can make a living room feel cozy and inviting. Sherwin-Williams' "Accessible Beige" (seasoned agents refer to it as "Builder Beige") is a great choice that adds warmth without being too dark.

Kitchen Colors

The kitchen is often a make-or-break room for buyers, so choose your colors wisely.

A white kitchen never goes out of style. It looks clean, bright, and spacious - all qualities that buyers love. Benjamin Moore's "Simply White" is a great option that works well with any cabinet color.

If you want to add a bit of color to your kitchen without going overboard, consider a light grey. Sherwin-Williams' "Repose Gray" (seasoned agents refer to it as "Agreeable Grey") is a beautiful, versatile option that pairs well with both warm and cool tones.

Bedroom Colors

The bedroom should be a relaxing retreat, and your color choices should reflect that.

Blue is the most popular bedroom color for a reason. It promotes relaxation and can even help improve sleep. Benjamin Moore's "Breath of Fresh Air" is a soothing light blue that can make any bedroom feel like a tranquil oasis.

If blue isn't your thing, soft neutrals are always a safe bet in the bedroom. Sherwin-Williams' "Alabaster" is a warm, creamy white that creates a serene atmosphere.

Bathroom Colors

Bathrooms may be small, but they can have a big impact on a home's overall appeal.

Remember that Zillow study I mentioned earlier? Light blue bathrooms can add serious value to your home. Benjamin Moore's "Glass Slipper" is a beautiful, spa-like blue that buyers love.

You can't go wrong with a crisp white bathroom. It looks clean, fresh, and spacious - all qualities that buyers are looking for. Sherwin-Williams' "Extra White" is a bright, pure white that can make even the smallest bathroom feel larger.

Exterior Paint Colors That Sell

Don't forget about the outside of your home! The exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see, so it's crucial to make a good impression.

Curb Appeal and Color

Curb appeal is more than just a buzzword - it's a crucial factor in selling your home.

The color of your home's exterior can make or break its curb appeal. A fresh coat of paint in the right color can make your home stand out (in a good way) and attract potential buyers.

While you want your home to stand out, you don't want it to stick out like a sore thumb. Choose colors that complement the other homes in your neighborhood.

Popular Exterior Colors

You can't go wrong with white or off-white for your home's exterior. It's classic, clean, and goes with everything. Benjamin Moore's "White Heron" is a beautiful, soft white that looks great on any style of home.

Greige isn't just for interiors - it looks great on the outside of homes too. Sherwin-Williams' "Mindful Gray" is a beautiful, versatile option that works well with a variety of trim colors.

While you want to keep the main color of your home neutral, don't be afraid to add a pop of color with your front door or shutters. A bold red or navy blue can add character and charm to your home's exterior.

Colors to Avoid When Selling

Just as important as knowing which colors to choose is knowing which ones to avoid.

Interior Colors That Devalue

While you might love your bright purple bedroom, potential buyers might not share your enthusiasm. Stick to neutral colors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Dark or bold colors can make rooms feel smaller and more closed in. Avoid deep browns, reds, or yellow when trying to sell your home.

Exterior Colors That Deter Buyers

A bright orange or neon green house might seem fun and quirky to you, but it could be a major turn-off for potential buyers. Stick to more conventional colors for the exterior of your home.

Make sure your exterior colors work well together. A yellow house with purple trim might be memorable, but not in a good way.

Tips for Choosing and Applying Paint

Selecting the Right Paint

When it comes to paint, you often get what you pay for. High-quality paint might cost more upfront, but it will look better and last longer, potentially saving you money in the long run.

The finish of your paint can be just as important as the color. Eggshell and satin finishes are great for most interior walls, while semi-gloss works well for trim and high-traffic areas.

Professional vs. DIY Painting

While painting can be a DIY project, sometimes it's worth calling in the pros. If you're short on time or dealing with high ceilings or intricate trim work, a professional painter can ensure a high-quality finish.

If you decide to tackle the painting yourself, invest in good quality tools and take your time. Proper preparation is key to a professional-looking paint job.

Color Trends and Timeless Choices

Current Color Trends in Real Estate

While trends come and go, some colors are having a moment in 2023. Warm neutrals and earthy tones are particularly popular this year.

Looking ahead, we're seeing a move towards nature-inspired colors and soothing pastels. However, remember that when selling your home, it's usually best to stick with timeless choices.

Timeless Color Choices

You can't go wrong with classic neutrals like white, beige, and light grey. These colors have stood the test of time and appeal to a wide range of buyers.

Some color combinations never go out of style. White walls with black trim, or a grey exterior with white trim, are classic choices that always look fresh and modern.

Maximizing Value Through Strategic Painting

Targeting Key Areas for Painting

Focus your painting efforts on high-impact areas like the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom. These are the rooms that can make or break a sale.

Don't forget about the exterior! A fresh coat of paint on your front door or shutters can dramatically improve your home's curb appeal.

Balancing Personal Taste and Resale Value

While you want your home to reflect your personal style, remember that when selling, it's best to create a neutral canvas that allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the space.

You can still add personality to your home without turning off potential buyers. Consider using bold colors in small doses, like on an accent wall or in your decor.

Conclusion: The Power of Paint in Home Selling

As a real estate agent with years of experience in the Raleigh-Durham market, I can't stress enough how important the right paint colors are when selling your home. The right colors can make your home feel larger, brighter, and more inviting - all qualities that can help it sell faster and for a higher price.

Remember, when in doubt, stick with neutral colors for the majority of your home. They provide a blank canvas that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Don't be afraid to add pops of color in small doses, but keep the overall palette neutral and cohesive.

Investing in a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make when preparing to sell your home. It's a relatively small investment that can yield significant returns.

If you're thinking about selling your home in the Raleigh-Durham area, don't underestimate the power of paint. With the right colors, you can transform your home into a hot property that buyers will be clamoring for.

And if you need help choosing the perfect colors or want more advice on preparing your home for sale, don't hesitate to reach out to the Tim M. Clarke Team. We're here to help you make the most of your home sale.

Ready to give your home a fresh look and boost its value? Grab those paint swatches and get started today!

Frequently Asked Questions about Home Paint Colors

What color should I paint my living room to increase home value?

Neutral tones like soft greys, warm beiges, or light blues are excellent choices for living rooms. These colors create a welcoming atmosphere and allow potential buyers to easily imagine their own furniture and decor in the space. Benjamin Moore's "Revere Pewter" is a popular choice that strikes a balance between warm and cool tones.

Does a white kitchen really help sell a home?

Yes, white kitchens are consistently popular among homebuyers. They create a clean, bright, and spacious feel that many find appealing. White also provides a neutral backdrop that allows potential buyers to envision their own style in the space. Consider Sherwin-Williams' "Pure White" for a crisp, clean look.

What's the best color for a bathroom to increase home value?

According to recent studies, light blue bathrooms can significantly increase a home's value. This color creates a spa-like atmosphere that many buyers find attractive. Benjamin Moore's "Palladian Blue" is a soothing option that can make your bathroom feel like a relaxing retreat.

Should I paint my home's exterior before selling?

If your home's exterior paint is faded, peeling, or outdated, a fresh coat can dramatically improve your curb appeal and potentially increase your home's value. Stick to neutral colors like white, light grey, or beige for broad appeal. Sherwin-Williams' "Agreeable Gray" is a versatile option that works well on many home styles.

What colors should I avoid when painting to sell my home?

It's best to avoid bright, bold colors or very dark shades when preparing to sell your home. Colors like bright orange, deep purple, or black can be polarizing and may turn off potential buyers. Stick to neutral tones that have broader appeal.

Is it worth hiring a professional painter when selling my home?

While DIY painting can save money, hiring a professional can often be worth the investment when selling your home. Professional painters can achieve a higher-quality finish, work more efficiently, and may have access to better materials. This can result in a more polished look that could potentially increase your home's value.

How does paint color affect the perceived size of a room?

Light colors tend to make rooms appear larger and more spacious, while dark colors can make rooms feel smaller and cozier. If you're trying to make a small room look bigger, consider painting it a light, cool color like pale blue or soft grey.

What's the best paint finish to use when selling a home?

For most interior walls, an eggshell or satin finish is ideal. These finishes are slightly reflective, which can make rooms appear brighter, and they're also easier to clean than flat finishes. For trim and high-traffic areas, a semi-gloss finish is often the best choice.

How important is color coordination between rooms?

Color coordination between rooms is crucial for creating a cohesive look throughout your home. While rooms don't need to be the same color, they should flow well together. Consider using different shades of the same color or sticking to a consistent color palette throughout your home.

Can I use bold colors anywhere when selling my home?

While it's generally best to stick to neutral colors when selling, you can incorporate bold colors in small doses. Consider using a bold color for an accent wall, or through easily changeable elements like throw pillows or artwork. This can add personality to your home without overwhelming potential buyers.