Selling your home involves many strategies to get the best price. That’s especially true in the 2024 Austin, TX market, where buyers prefer turnkey homes that don’t need work.
One of the most effective and affordable ways to increase your home’s market value is painting. This simple yet impactful upgrade can yield a substantial return on investment (“ROI”), making it a smart choice for homeowners looking to sell.
Let’s explore how painting can add value to your home, what areas to focus on, and the best paint colors to consider. We will also talk about ways to save on unnecessary costs to stretch your investment dollars.
The ROI of Painting Your Home
Research consistently shows that painting your home can significantly boost its sale price.
According to a study by Zillow, homes with a fresh coat of paint on the exterior can sell for up to 2.9% more than comparable homes without this upgrade.
Additionally, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that painting the exterior and interior of a home can yield an ROI of over 100%.
The potential dollars left on the table without painting can be huge, but you have got to do this right to maximize your ROI.
Key Areas to Paint for Maximum Value
Interior Walls
Painting interior walls in neutral tones can make your home feel more spacious and inviting. This is statistically the highest ROI available to sellers. Popular neutral colors like tan, gray, and off-white are universally appealing and can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.
Exterior Walls and Trim
The first impression is crucial when selling a home. Painting the exterior walls and trim can enhance curb appeal, making your home stand out in the neighborhood.
Front Door
A freshly painted front door can make a significant impact. It’s often overlooked but is an inexpensive way to improve your home’s appeal.
According to a report by Zillow, homes with front doors painted black (or similar shades like charcoal) can sell for up to $6,271 more than expected.
This is a massive ROI since the cost to paint doors is so low. You can also paint shutters in the same color to create a great accent to your main body and trim.
Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets
Updating your kitchen and bathroom cabinets with a fresh coat of paint can give these spaces a modern and clean look. This can also be an affordable alternative to replacing dated cabinets.
Colors
Choose neutral options that will appeal to a wide variety of buyers.
Popular Sherwin-Williams neutral interior options include:
● Natural Linen.
● Alabaster.
● Agreeable Gray.
● Pure White; and
● Snowbound.
Your interior paint needs to complement your fixed settlements like countertops and flooring. The above colors are neutral and can work in a variety of scenarios.
You can get a little more variety with exterior colors, but it’s best to stick with a neutral option that will appeal to many buyers. This is especially true if you have limestone, brick, or other stone that can easily clash with the primary undertones in many colors—test colors before committing.
At ArmorHouse Painting, we offer free color consultations and testing as part of our service to ensure you choose the right type for your home. You have got to get this part right to maximize your ROI when selling your home.
Cost Saving Tips
Cost is always a consideration when prepping a home for sale. Here are some tips that can help you limit your overall costs and increase your ROI on the dollars you spend.
● Avoid drastic color changes where possible. If your new paint color is similar to your existing one, you can save money by going with one coat, rather than two. This can save up to 33% on your painting costs. However, if you have a color that is dated or unpopular, you’re better off spending a little more to appeal to buyers.
● Avoid painting interior trim, ceilings, and closets if possible. Save money by focusing on the walls. Touch up trim areas that are worn down, leave white ceilings alone unless stained, and avoid painting closets if at all possible. These areas add significant cost and reduce your return on investment compared to walls and doors.
● Use economical paint. Premium paints (like Sherwin Williams Emerald, Duration, or Gallery) are great investments for long-term homeowners because they last longer before fading and are easier to clean. However, you’re not likely to see a return on these premium options when selling your home. Instead, stick with economical options like Sherwin-Williams ProMar 200 (interior) and A-100 (exterior) which will provide a great result, but won’t require the same investment. Whatever you do, avoid cheap, watered-down, inferior paint that will look terrible. Save, but do not skimp.
Summary
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s market value.
Focusing on key areas and choosing the right colors can make your home more appealing to buyers and increase your sale price. Spend wisely and avoid unnecessary costs to maximize your return on investment.
ArmorHouse Painting can help you transform your home into a property that stands out in today’s real estate market. Contact us today for your free estimate.
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