The Paint Colors That Could Be Turning Buyers Away
Why Neutral Shades Are Your Best Bet When Selling Your Home

There’s a reason professional stagers consistently reach for white and neutral tones when preparing a home for sale—they work. While bold colors may suit personal taste, they often distract potential buyers and make it harder for them to picture themselves in the space.

Colors That Can Work Against You

According to the 2024 Paint & Color Trends report by Fixr.com, design experts agree: certain colors are best avoided when putting a home on the market. Topping the list of buyer turn-offs:

Red: 53%

• Lime Green: 53%

• Bright Yellow: 40%

• Mustard Yellow: 19%

• Pink: 10%

• Turquoise: 9%

Red, in particular, was called out for being the most off-putting. It’s a strong, attention-grabbing color that simply doesn’t appeal to everyone—and in the context of home selling, universal appeal matters.

What to Do Instead

Rather than bold, saturated hues, designers recommend warm neutrals like whites, soft beiges, and light taupes. These tones do more than just calm a space—they visually expand it. In fact, 61% of experts say warm neutrals help smaller rooms feel larger and more open. White, in particular, can give the illusion of higher ceilings and broader walls.

While bold color trends might be stylish for interior design, they need to be used in a more moderate way when selling a property. Buyers aren’t always ready to embrace the newest trend.

The Bottom Line

If you're prepping your home for sale, color plays a bigger role than you might think. Stick to tried-and-true neutrals to help buyers feel at home—and let them envision their future in your space. Reach out to the Connie Dornan Team to get your home ready and sold!