When it comes to selling your home, the conventional wisdom has long been to stick with an all-white color palette. However, new findings from Zillow reveal that incorporating bold, vibrant colors can actually increase your home’s sale price. According to their recent paint color analysis, kitchens painted in charcoal gray can boost sale prices by approximately $2,512, while dark gray living rooms may see increases of about $1,755.
In 2024, making a statement with color is more important than ever. Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's home trends expert, notes, “The trend is shifting away from stark white walls, which can detract from a home’s value. More homeowners are embracing adventurous colors this year, and many are finding that it enhances their home’s appeal.”
This sentiment is echoed by design professionals. Bethany Adams, a designer based in Louisville, Kentucky, observes that deep, moody colors are gaining popularity, inspired by trends from influential designers like Jake Arnold and Amber Interiors. “These hues allow potential buyers to envision their personal style within a space,” she explains.
The Shift Away from White
Interestingly, Zillow's analysis highlights that white kitchens can actually reduce offers by over $600. This decline may stem from the perception that an all-white palette appears mundane and uninspired.
Jason Saft, founder of Staged To Sell Home in New York, emphasizes that buyers in the luxury market prefer homes that feel carefully curated rather than sterile. “Today’s buyers want environments that feel lived-in and welcoming,” he asserts.
While white can serve as a classic backdrop, it’s clear that rich colors are becoming more desirable. Houston designer Benjamin Johnston mentions that while white walls can create a solid foundation, infusing spaces with vibrant colors is becoming the norm. “Social media has inspired many homeowners to take risks with their decor, leading to an explosion of creativity,” he adds.
Mehnaz Khan, a color psychology expert, notes that aligning home colors with trending styles fosters a sense of belonging among buyers. “When people see homes that reflect the styles of their favorite influencers, it enhances their connection to the space,” she explains. The shift away from beige tones—often seen as uninspiring—signals a desire for homes that feel fresh and modern.
Smart Paint Choices for Selling
As we approach the summer home-buying season, Zillow’s Market Heat Index indicates that while the overall market is neutral, certain properties with updated features can still command higher prices. Pendleton advises homeowners to focus on paint choices in key areas for the best return on investment.
According to Zillow's research, the most impactful areas for painting include the kitchen and living room. Here are seven colors to consider for maximizing your home’s sale price:
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Graphite Gray Kitchen
Kitchens painted in graphite gray can enhance your sale price by about $2,512, while midtone pewter can add approximately $2,553. Designers like Saft have utilized shades such as Benjamin Moore’s Antique Pewter and Kendall Charcoal to create a contemporary look, as seen in the stunning designs by Catherine Kwong, featuring a striking steel gray cabinet juxtaposed with a navy island. -
Dark Gray Living Rooms and Bedrooms
A dark gray hue in these spaces can boost offers by $1,755. “Dark colors are inherently calming and lend themselves well to relaxing spaces like bedrooms,” Adams says. Paints like Farrow & Ball's Dove Tale, which features warm gray tones, provide a comforting atmosphere that appeals to buyers. -
Black Front Door
While gray excels indoors, midtone hues on the front door can actually decrease offers by $3,365. Conversely, Zillow’s data indicates that black front doors can enhance a home’s value by an impressive $6,449, while a midtone rosy brown can also yield a slight increase. -
Pistachio Green Kitchen
A soft pistachio green can increase offers by around $400. However, be mindful that this shade may not translate well to other rooms, potentially decreasing offers by $1,100 in bedrooms and $1,300 in living areas. The National Kitchen & Bath Association identifies various shades of green as trending in kitchen design for 2024. -
Blue Living Room
Blue is often the color of choice for homeowners hesitant to commit to brighter shades. Zillow indicates that a jay blue living room can raise offers by $446, although this color may not be as favorable in kitchens, where it can reduce offers by nearly $1,400. A well-executed blue, like Fine Paints of Europe’s Jefferson Blue, can add a sense of sophistication to your space. -
Terra Cotta Bathroom
For a warm and inviting bathroom, consider a terra-cotta hue, which could lead to an estimated increase of $1,624 in offers. Earthy shades can evoke a sense of comfort, with colors like Sherwin-Williams’ Bella Pink making a striking impact. -
Timeless White Exterior
While white interiors may be waning, a white exterior continues to be a popular choice among homeowners. Fixr’s 2024 Paint and Color Trends Report shows that nearly half of the experts surveyed recommend white for exteriors when selling a home. Jodi Peterman, owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs, advises choosing a soft white with undertones that harmonize with your home's architectural style. Whites like Benjamin Moore's White Dove are recommended for their ability to create a crisp, fresh appearance.
In summary, while white may no longer be the go-to choice for interiors, selecting the right colors—especially in high-traffic areas—can significantly enhance your home’s resale potential. By embracing bolder hues, you can create an inviting space that resonates with potential buyers.
Source: House Beautiful
