The wrong paint color can cost you thousands at closing.
You’re getting ready to sell your home, but feel overwhelmed by paint choices. You don’t want to pick something too bold that turns off buyers, but you also don’t want boring beige that makes your house forgettable in a crowded market.
I’ve found that certain Sherwin-Williams colors consistently help homes sell faster and for more money, including unexpected choices like Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn that buyers absolutely love but most sellers never consider.
Why Color Choice Impacts Resale Value
Color matters more than you think when selling your home. Buyers often decide within minutes, and your wall colors set that first impression.
Most buyers form their opinion before they finish the front hallway. If your walls look outdated, you’ve already lost them. Smart sellers choose colors that evoke a sense of “I could live here.”
Light neutrals work everywhere; they make rooms feel bigger. However, darker colors also add value. The trick is to use them as accent walls, not everywhere.
Today’s buyers love clean, timeless looks. The biggest trend I’m seeing is mostly light neutrals with one statement wall. This gives personality without overwhelming anyone.
This approach allows buyers to envision their own style in the space. And that’s exactly what you want.
Standout Sherwin-Williams Colors for Selling in 2025
The following are my top picks for colors that actually help homes sell faster and for a higher price. I’ve seen these work in countless homes across different markets.
Peppercorn (SW 7674)
This deep gray is having a major moment, and I understand why. It looks stunning on kitchen islands, creating that high-end contrast that buyers love. I’ve also seen it boost curb appeal when used on exterior shutters or front doors.
The best part is that it pairs beautifully with both warm and cool tones. You can use it in a modern farmhouse or a sleek contemporary home. It feels current but won’t look dated in five years.
Alabaster (SW 7008)
This soft white brightens every room it touches. Unlike stark whites, it has just enough warmth to feel inviting. It works with any natural light, whether you have morning sun or an evening glow.
Real estate agents tell me that this color consistently receives compliments at almost every showing. Buyers see it and immediately think “move-in ready.” It’s a safe bet that consistently pays off with faster sales.
Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
I love this warm gray-beige because it feels cozy without being too personal. It features subtle brown undertones that make spaces feel warm and welcoming. Works perfectly in living rooms, bedrooms, and long hallways.
Most buyers see it and think “home” instead of “house.” It’s neutral enough for anyone’s furniture but interesting enough to feel intentional.
Pure White (SW 7005)
This is my go-to for trim and ceilings. It makes your other colors pop and gives rooms that crisp, clean finish today’s buyers expect. I use this on baseboards, door frames, and crown molding in every project.
The contrast it creates makes rooms look more expensive and well-maintained. Small detail, big impact on perceived value.
Naval (SW 6244)
This rich navy adds serious depth without overwhelming spaces. I love it on front doors – it instantly boosts curb appeal. It also works beautifully on built-in bookcases or accent walls in powder rooms.
It gives just enough personality to make your home memorable while still feeling timeless. Buyers remember the “house with the beautiful blue door.”
Tips for Choosing the Right Paint for Resale
Choosing the right paint colors can be overwhelming when trying to appeal to buyers. The key is creating a cohesive look that feels intentional, not random.
- Create a Consistent Flow: Select 2-3 main colors and use them consistently throughout the house. This creates natural flow from room to room without feeling choppy.
- Keep Bold Colors as Accents: Save dramatic colors for powder rooms or single accent walls. Use safe neutrals in bedrooms and main living areas. Even shades like Sherwin-Williams Black Magic, known for its rich undertones and striking pairings, work best when used in small, purposeful ways.
- Test Samples on Your Walls: Paint large swatches directly on walls. Check them in morning light, afternoon sun, and evening lamplight – colors change dramatically.
- Match Your Home’s Style: Traditional homes need warmer, classic neutrals. Modern homes can handle cooler grays and crisp whites.
- Consider Your Local Market: Coastal areas favor blues and grays. Desert regions work better with warm beiges. Follow what’s selling in your neighborhood.
Conclusion
Choosing the right paint colors for resale doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick with proven winners like Alabaster and Agreeable Gray for main spaces, then add personality with colors like Peppercorn in strategic spots.
You’re not decorating for yourself – you’re creating a backdrop where buyers can see their future. Test your colors, keep things consistent, and trust that neutral doesn’t mean boring.
Grab those sample sizes and see how these colors look in your specific lighting.
Licensed broker Logan Patel holds an MBA in Urban Economics from UCLA and has steered buyers and investors through market swings for a decade. He joined us in 2024 to demystify listings, financing, and neighborhood data with clear, chart-backed advice. When he isn’t scanning comps, Logan coaches youth basketball and scouts mid-century districts for hidden architectural gems on weekend walks.
