Are sprucing up your home to get it ready for listing in the real estate market? Choosing the right paint colors can be a daunting task, but choosing the right color can bring top dollar when it’s time to sell.
The Right Paint Colors Increase Market Value
One of the top questions sellers ask me when attending listing appointments is “what’s the best way to raise my home value when I am thinking about listing my home?” My answer: “Paint!”
Fresh paint goes a long way with buyers. Buyers want a home to feel new to them, and newly painted walls are the simplest way to help spruce up your space. It also makes a home feel less “lived-in”, helping to make it more show-ready with minimal effort.
But it’s important to pick the right colors! While you may like a particular color or color scheme, be aware of what buyers are looking for, and make your decision accordingly. Here is a short list of recent trending paint colors as of the beginning of 2021:
- Benjamin Moore Rushing River
- Benjamin Moore Tranquility
- Benjamin Moore Silver Strong
- Benjamin Moore Gray Wisp
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
- Sherwin Williams Snowbound
- Benjamin Moore Pale Oak
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
(What is my favorite all time paint, you ask? Sherwin Williams Repose Gray.)
There are also different sheen levels to consider. Eggshell or semi-gloss are usually used in bathrooms or areas with more moisture, as these two paint finishes also offer a more durable, wipeable finish. Flat paint shows more wear over time, and is not as durable, which is why it is usually cheaper in price over all of the finish options. However, used wisely, it can add just the right element to certain rooms.
How Much Should I Paint?
Once a paint color has been selected, the usual next question I is, “Should I paint my whole house?” This can be a home-specific question, but, usually the main rooms of the house are the most important when it comes to buyer preferences. This would include living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.
Finally, make sure you also don’t just paint your walls. Trim and doors are important too! Painting trim and doors the same color creates an illusion of a larger space.
Be Careful! Do it Right!
Paint can also be a deal breaker too! Make sure to pick neutral paint colors. If the colors are too dark, your room could appear small to buyers.
Also, be sure to paint carefully and neatly, or hire a contractor with a good reputation to do it for you. Two good resources for DIY paint job tips:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/painting-how-to-paint-a-room-fast/
Quality of paint is important as well. Cheap paint is just that — cheap. It can be watered down, requiring more coats, which in turn will cost more money and time. It is best to stick with the more popular name brands, even if they cost extra up-front. The time you save painting coats makes better brands more worthwhile.
In conclusion, one of the best tips in raising home value, for the least amount of money spent, is choosing the right paint colors. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any specific questions regarding painting your home the right color in order to maximize your selling value. I am always available to answer questions about paint, or any others!