Should You Paint Your Home Before You Sell?

I have blogged already about my feeling that 2014 will be a great year to sell. Those sellers who have held off, waiting for values to go up, can reap the benefits of the 2013 price increases, as well as the growing buyer pool and lower inventory levels. But today’s buyers are definitely picky, and they usually know where they want to be (which neighborhoods, what amenities). To get top dollar for your home you really need it to be in the best showing condition possible.

I have written several blogs about things sellers can and should do to get their homes in the best condition for sale. But in this blog I wanted to focus on painting. Paint is probably one of the cheapest things you can do to seriously enhance the desirability of your home. A fresh coat of paint says that your home is well maintained, and really makes buyers feel there is less they need to attend should they purchase the home.

Exterior paint: Drive through any neighborhood and look at the homes. You will immediately notice those that are in need of paint jobs and those that look fresh and clean. Curb appeal is a big factor in whether a buyer will consider making an offer. If you are unable to paint the entire exterior of your home, at least consider painting the trim, front door and garage (if you have a painted garage). Doing so will not create a big dent in your pocketbook and will really make your home look more attractive.

Interior paint: Color was always a big plus in the past, but interestingly enough I just learned from a local builder that most buyers of new construction today prefer white paint. That was somewhat surprising, but I have heard it elsewhere – white seems to be the new preference. It says clean and fresh.

When it comes to painting one piece of advice has and still rings true: avoid bright or loud colors. While you may love a red kitchen or purple bedroom, if the buyers viewing your home do not it makes the home less desirable. It is better to paint over those colors and keep it neutral, or just go with white. You never know what colors people prefer and can never please everyone, so keep it simple.

Of course, paint is just one thing you can do to get your home in the best selling shape. You also should consider decluttering, removing personal photographs, light staging if needed, touching up your landscaping (potted plants are great by the front door), keeping your home clean and letting in the natural light. For more ideas on what you can do to make your home more appealing click here.