When preparing to sell your home, first impressions matter. Buyers often form opinions within seconds of walking through the door, and one of the easiest ways to make a strong impact is with a fresh coat of paint. A well-executed paint job can refresh your space, make rooms look larger, and create a neutral canvas that appeals to a wider range of buyers. But beyond aesthetics, painting is one of the highest ROI home improvements, offering a significant return for a relatively low cost.
Why Paint Matters When Selling Your Home
1. Boosts Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see. If your paint is faded, peeling, or outdated, it can give the impression that the home isn’t well-maintained. A freshly painted front door, trim, or even the entire exterior can instantly elevate your home’s curb appeal and attract more potential buyers.
2. Creates a Clean and Move-In-Ready Look
Buyers prefer homes that feel fresh, clean, and move-in ready. Scuffed walls, outdated colors, or marks from daily wear and tear can make a home feel unkempt. A new coat of paint removes these imperfections, making rooms look newer and well cared for.
3. Helps Buyers Visualize Themselves in the Space
Bold or highly personalized colors may reflect your style, but they can be a turnoff for buyers who struggle to imagine their own décor in the space. Neutral colors, like soft grays, warm whites, and light beiges, create a blank slate that helps buyers envision the home as their own.
4. Maximizes Natural Light & Room Perception
Lighter shades make spaces feel larger and brighter, while darker colors can make rooms feel smaller. Choosing the right paint color can enhance natural light, giving the home a more open and inviting feel — an important factor for buyers.
5. Increases the Perceived Value of the Home
A fresh paint job signals to buyers that the home has been well-maintained. It also eliminates the need for them to paint right away, making your home more appealing compared to others on the market.
Best Paint Colors for Selling Your Home
When choosing paint colors to sell your home, stick to neutral tones that complement various design styles. Here are some top real estate agent-recommended colors:
Living Rooms & Hallways: Agreeable Gray (Sherwin-Williams), Repose Gray (Sherwin-Williams), Swiss Coffee (Behr)
Kitchens: Alabaster (Sherwin-Williams), White Dove (Benjamin Moore)
Bedrooms: Classic Gray (Benjamin Moore), Accessible Beige (Sherwin-Williams)
Bathrooms: Sea Salt (Sherwin-Williams), Chantilly Lace (Benjamin Moore)
Front Door: Black Magic (Sherwin-Williams), Hale Navy (Benjamin Moore), Urbane Bronze (Sherwin-Williams)
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Painter
When to DIY:
If you have painting experience and the time to do it properly, you might save money by handling small projects yourself. A simple refresh of a bedroom or hallway can be manageable for many homeowners.
When to Hire a Pro:
For larger areas, high ceilings, or exterior painting, hiring a professional ensures a flawless finish, saves you time, and increases buyer confidence. Professionals also know the best techniques for smooth, even coats and can recommend the right type of paint for each surface.
Home Selling Tips: The ROI of Painting Before Selling
According to industry studies, painting the interior of your home can result in a 107% return on investment (ROI), while exterior painting offers a 55% ROI. Considering that paint is one of the most affordable home improvements, it’s a no-brainer when preparing your home for sale.
Conclusion
A fresh coat of paint is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to help your home sell faster and for more money. It enhances your home’s appeal, makes it feel well-maintained, and allows buyers to envision their future in the space. Whether you tackle the project yourself or hire a professional, painting before listing can give your home a competitive edge in the market. Painting before selling is one of the best home selling tips.
Ready to refresh your home before selling? Contact My Favorite Handyman today for professional painting services that help your home stand out!
