Painting to Sell: Key Areas for Maximum ROI in Columbus’ Hot Real Estate Market

Looking to sell your home in the Columbus area? Then the question has probably come to mind: “How can I increase the value of my property?” 

There are lots of tools, tips, and strategies out there, but fresh paint is one of the most practical and powerful at your disposal. 

Paint? Why It’s Worth It

You may be wondering, “How can paint REALLY help me sell my home?” 

It may surprise you, but prioritizing key areas for painting is actually one of the most effective ways to set your home apart in Ohio’s competitive market. How effective is it? Studies show that homes often sell for 2-5% more with fresh paint! So, a fresh coat of paint is not just a maintenance tactic; it’s a smart investment that can influence buyer perception and offer substantial returns. Let’s get into some specifics. 

Exterior: Making a Lasting First Impression

Everybody knows the importance of curb appeal when selling a home. But not everybody knows what the biggest contributor is to a stunning exterior. Can you guess? That’s right! It’s paint. Here’s what you should prioritize:

Front Door: The Power of an Eye-catching Color 

An inviting and vibrant front door is the centerpiece of your home’s curb appeal. Choose a bold color that complements the overall exterior palette to draw attention and welcome visitors.

Siding and Trim: Neutral Colors with Curb Appeal 

Opt for neutral colors for the siding to appeal to the broadest range of buyers. These shades provide a clean and maintained look, enhancing the architectural features with contrasting trim colors that define and accentuate. 

According to a study by Zillow, neutral-colored exteriors can add an average of $3,496 to a home’s sale price. 

Interior Focus: Where Paint Packs the Biggest Punch

As important as the exterior is to first impressions, buyers are also looking for something to live in, and not just look at from afar. So the interior cannot be neglected. 

The Welcoming Entryway

The foyer sets the initial mood for the entire home, making it a critical area for impact. Select foyer colors that are welcoming and harmonize with the rest of the house to create a seamless transition.

Kitchen Refresh: High Impact, Low Cost

A nice looking kitchen goes a long way in the overall feeling of the house. Two key areas: 

• Cabinet Painting: Refreshing your kitchen cabinets with a new coat of paint can dramatically change the look of your kitchen without a full remodel. This is a very cost effective yet transformative option. 
• Wall Colors: Choosing wall colors that complement your cabinets and countertops is also a good way to enhance the cohesiveness of the space.

Living Areas: Creating Flexible, Appealing Spaces

• Choosing Versatile Neutrals: It’s always nice when a buyer can walk into a house and feel like they wouldn’t need to paint it. Living areas with neutral colors that adapt to various decorating styles is the way to do it. These colors make the spaces appealing to more buyers.
• Using Accent Walls Strategically: Using an accent wall can add that captivating touch without overwhelming the space. Just make sure it pairs well with the neutrals you use. 

Don’t Overlook the Details

It can be tempting to think that the little things like trim and doors are not worth the investment. But that’s far from the truth! These are the things that can make or break the appearance of an interior. 

• Freshly Painted White Trim: Clean, white trim can brighten spaces and highlight architectural details, making rooms appear more refined and structured.
• Coordinating Door and Window Colors: Ensure that the colors of your doors and windows harmonize with the overall color scheme for a cohesive look.

Columbus Color Trends: What Local Buyers Want

When it comes to colors, you want to think about what local buyers are looking for. Stay updated with local trends in Columbus to choose color schemes that resonate with buyers. Currently, soft neutrals and welcoming earth tones are popular, appealing to those seeking a ready-to-move-in property.

The Professional Advantage: Maximizing Your Painting ROI

Now for the final question on the minds of everybody looking to paint: “Should I hire a pro or do it myself?” There are many projects that make for good DIY jobs, but when it comes to painting for maximizing ROI, professionals are the safest way to go. The quality and durability of your paint job will be unmatched with a professional painting company (assuming they really are pros). 

What’s Your Takeaway?

Strategic painting is more than just a touch-up; it’s an essential strategy in preparing your home for the market. With the right colors and professional execution, painting can significantly enhance the selling price, ensuring a smoother and more profitable sale!