How Your Exterior Paint Color Can Make It Harder For Your Neighbors To Sell Their Homes

Renovating your home's exterior involves countless decisions, most of which are pretty exciting. You may be envisioning new siding colors, the perfect accent trim, and even how you'll decorate your front porch when everything is finished. One aspect you might not consider, though, is something that stems beyond just your property: how your paint color choice will affect your neighbors' ability to sell their homes. There are some exterior paint colors you should avoid using at all costs, including highly saturated or bright colors that don't mesh well with neighboring houses.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 59% of buyers say the quality of the neighborhood affects their buying decision. Quality can include factors such as how well-maintained homes are, the local crime rate, and walkability. However, it may also encompass the visual aspects of nearby houses, so if yours is painted pink while every other home on the street is beige or gray, that bold color choice could actually hurt your neighbor's chance at selling their home.

When you're reimagining your home's paint color, it's tempting to choose something unique. After all, you're investing your own money into your home, and wanting to stand out a little isn't a bad thing. However, there's a big difference between choosing a design that leaves a good impression and one that gives buyers hesitation, even if you aren't the one currently selling your house. When buyers are house shopping, they aren't influenced only by the individual home they're touring but also by the impression of the neighborhood as a whole. So, if you paint your home lime green or red (two of the most off-putting shades, according to design experts) while every other house on the block is neutral, it can create a bad first impression.

If you want to avoid the home renovation decision that might upset your neighbors but are set on bold, bright colors, consider adding them as accents. For example, a neutral base color with a bold set of shutters, front door, or porch columns can add the uniqueness you're craving without turning your house into the neighborhood eyesore. The three-color rule that makes any home exterior look thoughtfully designed can also help you pull in fun colors in an intentional, subdued way so you get the best of both worlds: a home exterior you love and happy neighbors.