Exterior House Paint Colors to Avoid
Designers say bold, muddy or cool-toned exterior colors can hurt curb appeal and buyer perception, while warmer, muted shades tend to age better and sell more easily.
NEW YORK — Choosing the wrong exterior paint color can negatively affect curb appeal, buyer perception and long-term resale value, according to interior designers who caution against several commonly misused hues.
Dark or muddy browns, intense reds or purples, neon shades, certain pastels, cool grays and primary colors often appear harsh in natural light, absorb excess heat or feel out of place depending on climate and neighborhood context.
Designers note that exterior colors behave differently than interior finishes, with sunlight, surrounding homes, and regional conditions playing a major role in how a property is perceived.
"Cool grays can feel lifeless and uninviting, especially in natural light," said Laura Lubin, founder of Ellerslie Interiors in Nashville, Tenn.
Instead, professionals recommend warmer, sun-washed tones and muted shades that complement natural surroundings and age more gracefully over time. For buyers and sellers alike, thoughtful exterior color choices can help a home feel more welcoming, practical, and market-ready, while overly bold or trendy selections may limit appeal and complicate resale.
Source: Southern Living (01/02/26) Lyon, Sarah
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