The impact of kitchen color on home value
It’s a well-known fact that the colors we choose to decorate our homes with can have a significant impact on the value of our property. This goes for the kitchen as well, which is often considered the heart of a home. It’s where families gather for meals, guests are entertained, and memories are made. As such, it’s no surprise that the color scheme in the kitchen can make or break the overall appeal of the home. According to a study by real estate website, Zillow, the color of the kitchen can deter buyers’ desire to purchase a home and, in some cases, decrease the chances of accepting offers. The study found that some colors, such as bright reds, green, pink, and yellow, were deemed too overly loud for buyers’ tastes. As such, it’s essential to choose the right colors to ensure you get the best possible price when selling your home.The study by Zillow on kitchen color preference
Zillow’s study found that homes with red kitchens sold for substantially less than those with more neutral colored kitchens. According to the research, homes with kitchens painted in red or a similarly bright color sold for an average of $2,310 less than expected. This is a significant difference, considering that the value of a house can be increased or decreased by thousands of dollars simply by changing the color palette. The study also revealed that homes with yellow kitchens sold for $820 less than expected, while homes with green or pink kitchens sold for $770 and $236 less than expected, respectively. It’s interesting to note that even though green is generally considered a calming color, the bright tones were found to be off-putting to potential buyers.Colors to avoid in kitchen decor
Based on Zillow’s findings, it’s clear that certain colors should be avoided when selecting a kitchen color scheme. These colors include:- Bright reds
- Bright green
- Bright pink
- Bright yellow
The effect of bright reds on buyers
Red is often thought to be a bold and stimulating color that evokes feelings of passion and excitement. However, when it comes to kitchen decor, it’s important to use this color sparingly. According to Zillow’s study, homes with bright red kitchens sold for significantly less than homes with more neutral colored kitchens. Even though red might seem like an exciting and daring choice for a kitchen, it can be overwhelming for potential buyers, making it harder to sell your home for the best possible price.The negative impact of bright green, pink, and yellow
While green, pink, and yellow might seem like more subtle and calming colors than red, their bright tones can still have a negative impact on a home’s value. According to Zillow’s study, homes with green, pink, or yellow kitchens sold for less than expected, suggesting that these colors may not be the best choice for kitchens. When it comes to green, bright shades can evoke feelings of nausea or make people feel uneasy. Pink and yellow, on the other hand, are both perceived as cheerful colors. However, when used in a kitchen setting, they can become overwhelming, especially in a more extended exposure time.A cautionary tale for those considering bold kitchen colors
While it might be tempting to choose bold colors for your kitchen, it’s essential to consider how they’ll impact your home’s value in the long run. Zillow’s study shows that certain colors can deter buyers’ desire to purchase a home, making them harder to sell. As such, it’s often wise to opt for more neutral tones that appeal to a broader range of people. If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your kitchen, it’s best to do so sparingly. Consider incorporating colorful accents in the form of dishware, textiles or wall art, that way, they can easily be switched out if necessary.Creating a neutral kitchen color scheme for maximum home value
When it comes to choosing the right color scheme for your kitchen, neutral colors tend to be the safest choice. This doesn’t mean that your kitchen has to be boring, but it does mean sticking to a more muted palette. Some colors to consider include:- White
- Gray
- Beige
- Soft blues or greens
- Warm browns
- Earthy greens