July 24, 2024 by Susan Kadilak

Selling your home can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. You want to ensure your property stands out, attracts buyers quickly, and sells for the best price. One surprisingly effective way to achieve this is by simply painting your home.

Yes, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home’s marketability. Let’s explore how painting can help your home sell faster and dive into some compelling statistics and surveys that back this up.

 

First Impressions Matter

The first thing potential buyers notice is the exterior of your home. A well-maintained, freshly painted exterior gives the impression that the house is cared for and in good condition. According to a survey by HomeLight, 76% of real estate agents agreed that improving curb appeal is the number one step homeowners can take to boost their home’s marketability​​.

 

The Psychology of Color

Color plays a significant role in how we perceive spaces. A study by Zillow found that homes with specific paint colors can sell for thousands more than expected. For instance, homes with black or charcoal gray front doors sold for an average of $6,271 more than expected, while light blue bathrooms could add an extra $2,786 to the sale price​​.

Enhancing Interior Appeal

A fresh coat of paint inside the home can make spaces feel clean, modern, and inviting. Neutral colors, such as grays, beiges, and whites, are particularly effective as they appeal to a broader range of buyers and make it easier for them to envision their own belongings in the space. According to a survey by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), painting interior walls is a cost-effective home improvement that offers a return on investment (ROI) of up to 107%​​.

 

Statistics on the Impact of Painting

• Quicker Sales: A study by HomeGain revealed that painting the exterior of a home can result in a 55% ROI, while painting the interior can result in a 107% ROI. Homes that have been freshly painted tend to sell faster than those that haven’t.

• Higher Offers: Zillow's research indicates that certain paint colors can not only speed up the sale but also result in higher offers. For example, kitchens painted in soft blue or gray can add up to $1,809 to a home's value​​.

• Increased Buyer Interest: According to a survey by Consumer Reports, painting key rooms like the kitchen and bathroom can yield a 1-3% increase in the sale price, significantly attracting more buyers​​.

Above: 7 of the Best Neutral Paint Colors by Kadilak Homes. Click here to see them used in spaces around some of our past projects.

 

Practical Tips for Painting Your Home Before Selling

1.) Choose Neutral Colors: Stick to neutral shades like whites, grays, and beiges to appeal to the widest audience.

2.) Focus on Key Areas: Prioritize painting the kitchen, bathrooms, living room, and front door to make the biggest impact.

3.) Use High-Quality Paint: Invest in good quality paint and professional services if necessary to ensure a flawless finish.

4.) Keep It Fresh and Clean: Ensure that the paint job is fresh, clean, and without any drips or uneven areas.

5.) Consider Current Trends: While neutral is safe, being aware of current color trends can also give your home a modern, updated feel.

 

The Final Brushstroke

Painting your home before selling is one of the most effective and affordable ways to enhance its appeal, attract more buyers, and ultimately sell it faster and for a better price. By choosing the right colors and focusing on key areas, you can significantly influence buyers' perceptions and increase the value of your home. So, grab that paintbrush and get ready to transform your home into a buyer's dream!

Remember, a little paint can go a long way in making a lasting impression on potential buyers.