The Pyschology of

*Color*

in Your Home

Agents frequently suggest that homeowners paint before placing their home on the market. Don't be offended! Agents understand "Color Psychology," which focuses on color's effect on human behavior and emotion. Since people's reaction to color is immediate, it has a tremendous influence on their daily choices.


Dollars and Color Sense

"Color choices are very personal and when selling your home, it's critical to appeal to the greatest number of potential buyers," said Allegra Dioguardi, president of Styled and Sold Home Staging in New York. "With so many people beginning their search for a home on the Internet today, your home and listing photos must stand out from your competition. Color is one very simple way to do this."

The Art of Blending In While STANDING OUT

"Painting your house's exterior before you put it on the market will give the biggest bang for your fix-up buck, as long as you are using colors that conform to the neighborhood's decorating norm," says Eric Brown, author of House Selling for Dummies. Your home's exterior color is the first thing most potential homebuyers see when they drive up or inspect the property on the web. The correct color may be the most powerful and cost effective design tool at your disposal.

Warm, Cool, & In-Between

Colors affect us in many ways, and by using the principles of color psychology, you can make your home stand out from the competition, sell more quickly, and at a higher price.




In general, blues and purples will feel cool, while reds and oranges feel warm. Neutrals like beige, off-white and gray may not be as provoking, but they're great for trim and small spaces.






Consider the purpose for each room. Kitchen and dining areas painted in "food colors" such as coffee browns, celery greens, and scrabmled egg yellows will make the rooms feel more natural.




Color it "Sold!"

So, what are the "correct" colors these days? Brown's research shows that homes painted in pale yellows with cream or beige accents have sold fastest during the past few years. In general, ligher colors are favored for exteriors as they make the property seem larger.

Dark Accents: Good or Bad? Conversely, painting your sideboards with a darker color will make the house seem smaller, though dark colors can draw more attention to your home's details. For older homes, you may consider historical accuracy, as this could be a big selling point!




Bedroom Colors

According to Jeanette Fisher's book Joy to the Home: Secrets of Interior Design Pyschology, deeper shades of color imply intimacy and serenity. She recommends painting master bedrooms a medium shade of green or blue for warm selling seasons, and rouge red for cooler weather.

Don't know what to paint other bedrooms and baths? Try creamy tones of green, blue, or pale shell pink.