When preparing to sell your home, one of the smartest — and most affordable — investments you can make is a fresh coat of paint. But not just any color will do.
According to industry research, the right paint colors can help your home sell faster and for thousands more. Color influences how buyers feel about a space, how large or clean it looks, and whether they can imagine themselves living there.
Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful paint colors and where to use them:
1. Soft Neutrals That Appeal to Everyone
Neutral tones create a clean, inviting backdrop that helps buyers focus on the home’s features rather than its style. Warm greiges, light taupes, and soft whites are your best bet.
Top Picks:
- Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore
- Agreeable Gray by Sherwin-Williams
These colors make spaces feel larger and brighter — two major selling points.
2. Cool Blues That Feel Like a Spa
Here’s a surprising stat: Homes with light blue bathrooms have sold for up to $5,000 more than similar homes with other colors, according to a Zillow study.
Top Picks:
- Sea Salt by Sherwin-Williams
- Pale Smoke by Benjamin Moore
Soft blues create a soothing, spa-like feel that appeals to a wide range of buyers.
3. Crisp Whites for a Classic Kitchen
White kitchens never go out of style. They look clean, bright, and spacious — all things buyers love.
Pro Tip: Avoid stark whites, which can feel cold. Instead, go for warmer whites with soft undertones.
Top Picks:
- Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams
- Simply White by Benjamin Moore
These shades work well on both walls and cabinetry.
4. Bold Accent Colors for a Luxe Touch
Best for: Front doors, dining rooms, and feature walls
Adding a rich, dramatic color in the right spot can give your home a designer look. A deep navy or charcoal front door, for example, can add as much as $6,000 in perceived value.
Top Picks:
- Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore
- Tricorn Black by Sherwin-Williams
Use sparingly to highlight architectural details or create contrast.
5. Earthy Greens That Ground a Space
Best for: Bedrooms, offices, or even exteriors
Sage, olive, and dusty greens are rising in popularity. These natural tones bring warmth and calm to any room, especially in spaces meant for rest or focus.
Top Picks:
- Soft Fern by Benjamin Moore
- Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams
These colors pair beautifully with wood accents, white trim, and warm metals.
Final Thoughts: Small Change, Big Return
Painting is one of the easiest ways to transform your home — and potentially increase its value. By choosing buyer-friendly colors that highlight your home’s best features, you make it easier for buyers to say yes.
If you’re thinking about selling and unsure where to start, I’d be happy to walk through your home and recommend colors that fit your space and market. Sometimes the smallest updates can deliver the biggest results.