The Best House Colors for Resale

Points to Consider

• When choosing house paint, you should first consider your geographical region. Colors that are commonplace in the Southwest will not suit the Northeast. Landscape, light and foliage are different in each area and contribute to the look of the home. Also consider the architecture of your home. A small bungalow needs different treatment than a large colonial house. Victorian houses tend to be more playful with color. These styles of houses all have inherent color palettes that work best with their type of architecture. Research the best colors for your type of home at the library, in books or magazines and online. You don't have to follow these guidelines exactly, but they are a good starting point when looking at paints for a home exterior.

Neutrals

• Neutral colors are always a safe choice when considering resale value. Tans, grays, off-whites and taupe can be tasteful and subdued. Add touches of color on doors and house trim to add more interest, but keep it understated. White trim on a neutral color with added touches like darker-toned shutters can give a house character and elegance. Paint manufacturers have formulated many neutral colors with subtle undertones. These can be effective at adding a feeling of color while still retaining the tasteful, neutral note.

Muted Color

• If neutral colors are too boring for your taste, indulge in color but go for more muted colors that fit in well with the surrounding environment. Blues can be risky, but not if you choose a grayish-blue that looks more like slate, a natural outdoor color. This shade of blue creates a serene, yet crisp effect, according to ThisOldHouse.

Trim Color

• Trim colors can easily go wrong, so take particular care when choosing trim color to match the house color. Match with gray undertones on both house paint and trim paint to add contrast without a glaring difference. White always add a fresh look to house colors. Avoid experimentation, and stay with trim colors that are common on other houses in the neighborhood. This quality of fitting in with the rest of the neighborhood can go a long way toward adding to the resale value of your home.