Is It Worth Painting a House Before Selling?

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that painting will help increase your home’s value and make it more appealing to buyers. However, there are other factors at play as well.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of these considerations so you can make an informed decision on whether or not painting is worth it when selling your house.

First, let’s look at the benefits of painting your home before making a sale.

• Curb Appeal - A freshly painted home can have a wow factor that goes a long way in showing the value of your home. Doing something as simple as painting your home can give it a new life that will make buyers interested in seeing more of what your property has to offer.
• Home Value - A little investment in a paint job can give your home an excellent return on your investment. It’s no secret that homes that look well-maintained and up-to-date are more attractive to buyers. Newly painted homes give the feeling that they’re well taken care of, so buyers won’t have to worry about unexpected costs after they move in. A fresh interior paint job can give you a return of up to 107% on your investment.

Of course, it’s essential to consider the financial impact of painting your home before selling.

Here are five things to keep in mind:

One of the most significant factors that can affect the cost of painting your home is the size of your property. Generally, the larger your home, the more it will cost to paint it.

This is because more paint is required to cover all the surfaces, and it will take longer to complete the job.

The quality of the paint you choose can also influence the cost of painting your home.

Higher-quality paint tends to be more expensive, but it also lasts longer and requires less maintenance, saving you money in the long run.

On the other hand, paints may require more coats to achieve the desired finish, which can increase the total cost of the job.

Labor costs usually make up a significant portion of the total cost of painting a house. The labor cost can vary, depending on the contractor’s experience, the location of your property, and the job’s complexity.

When comparing the prices of different contractors, make sure you consider the quality of their work, their experience level, and their pricing structure.

Some contractors charge by the hour, while others charge a flat fee for the entire job. Make sure to ask about any additional costs, such as travel expenses or the cost of materials, before making your final decision.

If your house is older, chances are, some repairs need to be done before painting.

Cracks and holes in the walls, faulty wiring, and other common issues must be fixed before painting. Prep work includes masking windows and doors, laying down tarps to protect the floors, and much more, including pressure washing.

The level of repair and prep work required will directly impact the overall cost of painting.

Extra features such as decks, porches, cabinets, and trim can impact the cost of painting your home.

Painting your cabinets, for example, can completely renew your kitchen’s appearance.

However, it’s crucial not to overspend on these features as buyers have a wide range of tastes and preferences.

The financial impact is not the only factor you have to consider when deciding whether to paint your home before selling — time is an essential factor as well.

• Exterior Painting - Exterior painting usually takes about a week. The time frame includes the preparation and clean-up, as well as the actual painting. The size of your property can also affect the length of time that it will take to paint it.
• Interior Painting - Interior painting usually takes a few days, depending on the size of your home. However, if you need to move around furniture, repair walls, or do any prep work, it may take longer.

Choosing the right paint color can make or break your home’s sale. Here are some tips to ace this step of the process:

If you’re unsure where to start, consider popular color palettes for your home.

Neutral colors such as light gray, beige, and white are popular choices that can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the house.

You may also want to consider the style of your home and pick a paint color that matches it.

Another good tip is to consider the psychological effects of colors.

Studies have shown that colors can evoke certain emotions in people, so think about the feelings you want potential buyers to experience when they come into your home.

Some colors may make them feel calm and relaxed, while others may make them feel energized and excited.

Nothing beats the knowledge and experience of a professional when it comes to choosing the right color and paints.

Rather than trying everything yourself, consult with a paint specialist so they can help you make the best choice.

Seasons can affect the length of time it takes to paint your home.

Spring and fall are usually the best times for painting in Minnesota. During these months, the air typically has less humidity, allowing the paint to dry faster.

A typical timeline for painting a house in Minneapolis is around two to three weeks, depending on the size of your property and the number of rooms that need to be painted.

Doing the painting yourself may appear to be a cost-efficient option at first, but it is wise to remember that professional painters have the experience and knowledge required to complete the job quickly and skillfully.

Further, professionals can spot any defects or damage on your home's walls before beginning their work, saving you time and money down the line. On top of this, certified contractors are insured against any incidents that may occur while painting your home.

Are you ready to give your home the perfect paint job before selling it?

Painting your home can elevate its value and make it stand out from other properties.

494 Painting Flooring & More is proud to be an experienced and trusted painting contractor in the Twin Cities Metro area of Minnesota, that can help you with your exterior or interior project. 

Get your free quote today, and see how much value we can add to your home!