Are you looking for a simple way to increase the value of your home? If you’re planning on selling your house in the near future (or just want an update that will stay relevant), a fresh coat of paint can be an affordable way to boost your home’s worth — provided you choose the right colors.
According to a recent Zillow survey, paint colors can significantly impact the amount buyers are willing to pay for a home. But which colors add value? And which colors reduce how much your home is worth?
Interior Color Recommendations
Neutral tones are almost always a safe bet inside the home. These colors reflect light and can make a room seem more spacious and inviting. Classic white is a timeless example — it works everywhere.
On the flip side, using bright, bold colors could decrease your home’s value.
A bright red kitchen tends to decrease a buyer’s offer price by about $1,500 (for a $290,000 home). But crisp white can increase buyer interest, adding an average value of $500. In the living room, a light gray could increase value by $200.
In the bathroom, a calming, light blue could increase the offer price by nearly $5,000.
If you’re itching to go bolder with your color choices, the bedroom is the place to do it. Respondents preferred darker, moodier shades that pair well with various furnishings and styles of decor. Your best option is dark blue, which can increase value by $1,500. (The key here is bold, not bright.)
Exterior Color Recommendations
Again, neutral colors will make your home appeal to a larger audience. Colors like white, gray and cream are timeless no matter your location and work well with a variety of styles. Bright colors, alternatively, can be off-putting — yellow is a particular no-no.
But don’t discount black, which works particularly well for accents (e.g., shutters, doors) and can create an interesting contrast.
If you’re not sure what types of paint to use read our blog on picking the right paint.
For more help with home maintenance or projects, reach out today.