Choosing Exterior Colors-Part I

If you choose them well, the exterior colors of your house can create the dynamic first impression that draws buyers in and makes them want to see more. When you’re selling, painting your house in attractive colors is a smart decision and a sound investment.

When well-chosen, the exterior colors of your house can create the dynamic first impression that draws buyers in and adds value. No matter how grand or modest the house, color can improve its appearance by creating or enhancing positive features, and hiding unsightly ones. When you’re selling, painting your house in attractive colors is a smart decision and a sound investment.

Consider the architectural style and details of your house:

•    What colors dominate permanent elements like the roof, patio or stonework? Are they warm (yellow undertones), cool (blue undertones), or neutral?
•    Are there attractive details to highlight, such as windows, shutters or trim? Don't accent horizontal or vertical trim bands! Builders use them to join sections and hide gaps, not as decoration. If accented, they often create a busy, “choppy” look. Avoid this common mistake.
•    Don’t automatically paint different surface materials in different colors, i.e., wood and stucco. The result often is busy and detracts from the architecture.
•    Make functional items like gutters, downspouts, cable, utility boxes, etc. "disappear" by painting them the same color as the surface they’re on.
•    Paint the foundation in the wall color for a more unified, custom look. This is especially beneficial when a great deal of foundation is visible.
•    Does the house have pleasing proportions, or can you use color to make corrections? For example, look at the roof line. If the color of the eaves and fascia is the same as the walls, the house appears taller. If painted the same color as the roof, the house appears shorter.
•    Does the architecture of the house suggest a color scheme? Some paint company brochures show color combinations for historic or regional architecture that may inspire you.
•    Is the entryway a naturally attractive focal point, or is the garage door the first thing you see? Don't accent the garage door or paint it the same color as the front door. It makes the entryway less important. Paint the garage door in the wall color and choose a special color for the front door. Don’t use it anywhere else.

Your goals are unity, simplicity and impact.

Smart Selling Tip:
The colors of your house can create the dynamic first impression that draws buyers in and adds value. When you’re selling, painting the exterior in attractive colors is a smart strategic move that can improve the bottom line.