Buzz
Photo: Katarzyn Bialasiewicz/Getty ImagesA fresh coat of paint is a widely-used and budget-friendly way to improve your home. It can breathe new life into a tired, weather-beaten appearance and, in turn, increase your home's market value and curb appeal. However, these positive effects are influenced by several factors like the color scheme, paint quality, and the condition of your home.
The right paint colors for your exterior can accentuate your home's best qualities, while poor choices may repel potential buyers. To help, we asked experts to share which colors could unintentionally decrease your home's value and the reasons behind it. Here’s what to keep in mind before picking a new exterior color for your home.
Paint Colors and Factors That Can Impact Home Value
Selecting the ideal paint colors for your home isn't always straightforward—it hinges on several factors. For instance, your home's location plays a crucial role when deciding on an exterior color. In certain areas, like beachside communities or artistic districts, vibrant colors such as pastel blues or coral can be more acceptable because they align with the neighborhood's vibe, says real estate expert Angelica F. VonDrak. However, in more conservative suburban areas, these bold choices might not be as appealing.
When picking a color for the exterior of your home, consider not only its immediate appearance but also how it will age over time. Dark shades absorb more UV rays, which can lead to quicker fading or peeling. Therefore, it's wise to use dark or intense colors sparingly, reserving them for accents rather than the main hue to avoid premature deterioration.
"Though it may seem tempting to follow the current trend, like painting your house entirely black, it’s important to determine if it suits your home’s design and surroundings," says VonDrak. "What’s in vogue now might not work well with every architectural style or neighborhood, potentially diminishing the home's standout features. If your home boasts intricate wood details or unique windows, opting for too dark of a color might cause these elements to blend in rather than shine."
If you’re planning to sell your home, it’s essential to think beyond your own design preferences. While bold colors like bright yellow or electric blue might reflect a personal style, they could deter potential buyers who may view them as too costly or challenging to repaint. In fact, Zillow’s research revealed that homes painted yellow typically sold for $3,408 less than similar homes in other hues.
"In general, overly bold colors—like neon greens or vivid reds—can be a drawback, as they’re often too niche and cater to personal tastes," explains VonDrak. "The goal is to attract as many buyers as possible, and bright colors can turn people off because they can’t imagine themselves in that space."
The color of your front door plays a significant role too. According to the same Zillow report mentioned earlier, homes with front doors painted in red, blue, or green tend to receive offers that are about $1,300 lower than those with other colors.
Paint Colors and Factors That Can Boost Home Value
Colors that enhance curb appeal often feature neutral and timeless shades with a natural vibe, such as white, light gray, beige, or "greige." These color schemes balance softer neutrals with darker tones like charcoal gray, blue, or navy on shutters, trim, and the front door. A white exterior paired with black accents creates a sharp, sophisticated look, while natural greens with white trim complement homes surrounded by abundant greenery. Buyers are drawn to popular combinations like taupe and white, cream and brown, and gray and navy.
The right paint color for your home's exterior may also depend on its architectural style. Lighter, neutral shades like soft grays, off-whites, or subtle earth tones work well with many architectural styles, from craftsman to colonial. For Mediterranean homes, warm hues like terra cotta or soft beige are a better fit, whereas bright or harsh colors may clash with the overall design.
When selecting the best front door color, it’s important to consider factors like your home's style, neighborhood, and more. A 2022 Zillow study revealed that homes with black front doors were sold for an average of $6,450 more.
Additional Considerations
While a can of paint alone won't boost your home's value, combining it with essential upgrades can make a big difference. Think about adding a new roof, maintaining gutters, improving landscaping, and installing outdoor lighting—all of which can complement your freshly painted exterior and enhance buyer appeal.
When choosing exterior paint, opt for durable, weather-resistant options to minimize future repairs and upkeep. Using high-quality paint will reduce the need for frequent touch-ups, and regular power washing will help keep your paint job looking like new for years.
Don't forget to add finishing touches to your home’s exterior, like updated house numbers, light fixtures, or a new mailbox. These small improvements create the impression of a well-maintained home and can attract potential buyers.
