Should You Paint or Not Paint Your Home When You Sell?

When homeowners ask me, “Kati, should I paint before I sell?” my answer is: it depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all. I’ve seen homes benefit from a fresh coat of paint, and others where painting was just a waste of time and money.

So today, I’m giving you my honest advice—from the perspective of someone who’s sold hundreds of homes and helped sellers navigate this exact question. Let’s break it down so you can make the right call without second-guessing.

When You Should Definitely Paint Before Selling

1. Your Walls Are Bright or Dated Colors
   Buyers want a clean slate. That red dining room or lime green bathroom? It’s likely turning people away online before they even book a showing. Stick with neutral tones—light grays, beiges, or warm whites. These colors photograph well and make the home feel brighter, bigger, and more modern.

2. There’s Visible Wear or Grime
   If your walls are scuffed, faded, or look like they’ve survived a decade of sticky fingers and pets—paint. This is one of the easiest ways to freshen up a space and make your home feel move-in ready.

3. You’re Competing in a Buyer’s Market
   In markets where buyers have a lot of choices, your home has to stand out. A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest upgrades you can make to increase appeal instantly.

When You Can Probably Skip Painting

1. The Paint Is in Good Condition and Neutral
   If your home already has neutral walls and the paint still looks fresh, save your money. You’d be surprised how many homes I see where sellers are ready to repaint a perfectly good space just because they think they “have to.”

2. It’s a Lower-Priced Condo or Investment Property
   In more affordable price ranges, you need to be careful not to over-improve. Spending $2,000–$4,000 on paint may not give you the return you're expecting—especially if buyers are more focused on price and location.

3. You’re Tight on Time or Budget
   If you don’t have the time or funds to do a full paint job, don't panic. Ask your agent if minor touch-ups or better listing photos can offset the impact. Sometimes, good lighting and professional photography can make a space look fresher than it really is.

A Real Example From My Sellers

One of my clients was ready to paint her entire condo because she thought the walls looked “too yellow.” After reviewing her listing photos, I advised her to hold off. The paint was actually in great shape, and with some slight color adjustments to the photos, we made the space look warm and inviting. That decision saved her thousands—and the condo still sold quickly.

Trust Your Agent—But Make Sure They’re Experienced

If your agent is pushing you to paint, ask why. Is it because your home genuinely needs it, or is it just standard advice? A strong agent will walk you through cost vs. return and help you prioritize smart updates.

Look for someone who has sold at least 150 homes in the last five years. That’s the level of experience you want when making decisions that affect your bottom line.

My Advice

Always ask: “Is this going to help the house sell faster or for more money?” If the answer isn’t clear, that’s when you consult someone like me. In my Facebook group, I walk homeowners through these exact decisions—and I answer every post personally.

Painting can absolutely increase your home’s value—but only when done strategically.