The Truth About Paint and Property Value: What Really Adds Equity? 

When Rachel decided to sell her home, her realtor had one immediate suggestion: update the paint. The exterior was faded from years of sun exposure, and the interior featured a few dated colors that didn’t show the space in its best light. A modest investment in professional painting helped her home stand out online, show beautifully in person, and ultimately sell for over asking price. 

It’s no secret that strategic painting -- inside and out -- can make a major difference when it comes to resale. But what exactly adds value? 

Here’s what homeowners should know when it comes to boosting equity with a fresh coat of paint. 

1. Curb Appeal Sells -- Starting with the Exterior 

The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see, whether online or in person. A freshly painted exterior instantly signals a well-maintained property. 

• Neutral, widely appealing colors perform best

• Crisp trim and accent doors offer contrast and visual interest

• Even repainting the front door can increase perceived value 

Pro Tip: High-contrast color schemes (like white siding with black trim) are trending and help your listing pop. 

2. Interior Paint = Instant Refresh

Nothing makes a home feel clean, bright, and move-in ready like freshly painted walls.

• Stick to soft, neutral tones for broad appeal (think greige, taupe, warm white)

• Repainting high-traffic rooms like kitchens and living rooms gives the home a “cared-for” feel

• Avoid dark or bold colors unless used strategically (they can shrink the space or turn off buyers)

Best ROI Spaces to Paint Before Selling:

• Entryway and foyer

• Living/dining room

• Primary bedroom

• Kitchen and bath (especially if walls are dated or scuffed)
  
  

3. Small Upgrades, Big Impact: Cabinets, Trim and Doors

You don’t need to repaint everything. Painting smaller surfaces like:

• Interior doors

• Window trim

• Kitchen cabinets can modernize a home and signal that it’s been updated -- without the cost of a full reno.
  

Pro Tip: Choose a satin or semi-gloss finish for durability and easy cleaning.

4. Paint Shows Buyers What Photos Can’t

Online listing photos get buyers through the door -- but it’s the details they see in person that can sway a decision.

• Fresh paint makes a space feel well-cared-for and move-in ready

• It reduces the buyer’s mental “to-do” list and can justify a higher offer

• Homes with modern, neutral color palettes tend to sell faster and for more
  

5. The ROI Is Real

According to real estate experts and recent studies:

• Interior painting offers an average ROI of 107%

• Exterior painting offers an average ROI of 55–60%

• Strategic painting helps your home stand out in a competitive market
  
  

Summary and Conclusion

Painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your home. Whether you’re prepping to sell or just want to increase equity, a fresh coat in the right places -- and the right shades -- can make a measurable impact.

Not sure which areas of your home will give you the best return on a paint investment?

Our team at Total Image Paint can help. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and boost your home’s value with color that counts.