If you’re preparing to put your house on the market, a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to increase your home’s value. Choosing the right colours can significantly affect how potential buyers perceive your property and, in turn, the offers you receive. So, what colours should you consider for both the interior and exterior of your home?
The Psychology of Colour
Colours have a profound psychological impact on how people experience a space. Neutral tones, for example, can create a calming and inviting atmosphere, helping buyers envision themselves living in the home. These tones also make rooms feel more spacious, light, and warm—qualities that many buyers appreciate.
On the other hand, overly bright or unconventional colours might put off some buyers. To maximise your home’s appeal and value, it’s essential to select colours that resonate with a wide audience.
Grey Is the New Black
According to the latest Zillow® analysis of paint colour preferences, buyers are willing to offer thousands more for homes with grey walls compared to those with white walls. The research found that homes with a graphite grey kitchen could sell for approximately $2,512 more than similar homes with a white kitchen. A dark grey living room could add $1,755 to the selling price, and even lighter shades like pewter grey can boost home values by $2,553. In contrast, a white kitchen might actually lower the offer by $612.
What makes grey so popular? Grey is considered a balanced, neutral colour, which makes it highly versatile. It doesn’t clash with other colours and works well with nearly any decor style. Grey also exudes a sense of calm, modernity, and sophistication—qualities that appeal to many buyers.
Darker shades, like charcoal or graphite, can give a room a sleek, polished look, often used in minimalist and modern designs. However, while grey works well in most spaces, avoid using it on the front door. Homes with a cement grey front door tend to receive $3,365 less in offers. Instead, opt for a mid-tone rosy brown, which could increase offers by $300.
Earth Tones Are Best for Bathrooms
Earth tones are also associated with higher offer prices, particularly when used in bathrooms. These warm, natural shades create an inviting and tranquil feel, which resonates with buyers looking for relaxation spaces. Terra-cotta brown, a standout colour and a 2023 Colour of the Year, has proven to be especially effective in boosting home value. This earthy, reddish-brown tone evokes a sense of nature, comfort, and serenity, making it a perfect choice for bathrooms.
Bathrooms painted in terra-cotta brown can increase a home’s selling price by $1,624 more than similar homes with other bathroom colours. The organic warmth of this shade adds unique character, aligning with current trends favouring natural materials and warm, retreat-like interiors.
Choosing Colours That Sell
If your home is on the market, or you’re simply planning a home makeover, keep these colour trends in mind. Neutral greys and earthy tones are timeless, versatile, and widely appealing to buyers. The right paint colours can help you sell your home faster and even fetch higher offers.
