When it comes to preparing your home for sale—or simply freshening up your space—few updates offer as much return on investment as a new coat of paint. In fact, according to real estate experts, updated paint in neutral tones can help your home sell faster and for more money.
Why? Paint is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to modernize a space and help buyers envision themselves living there. Neutral colors, in particular, create a clean, calm backdrop that appeals to a wide range of tastes and styles.
How Paint Impacts Perceived Value
A freshly painted home signals to buyers that the property has been well-maintained. It also helps minimize distractions and allows key features—like natural light, trim, flooring, and layout—to shine. Even older homes can feel refreshed and more contemporary with the right paint palette.
Choosing the Right Neutrals
Not all neutrals are created equal. Today’s popular choices go far beyond basic beige. Here are five versatile, on-trend neutral paint colors that work beautifully in a wide variety of homes:
1. Sherwin-Williams “Pure White” (SW 7005)
Tone: Crisp, clean white with soft warmth
Why it works: Pure White is a go-to for a modern, fresh look without feeling cold or stark. It works beautifully on walls, trim, or cabinetry—especially in homes with natural light.
2. Benjamin Moore “Revere Pewter” (HC-172)
Tone: Warm greige (gray + beige)
Why it works: A long-time favorite for good reason—Revere Pewter bridges cool and warm tones, making it incredibly flexible for open-concept homes. It pairs well with wood tones, white trim, and a variety of accent colors.
3. Behr “Blank Canvas” (DC-003)
Tone: Soft neutral white with warm undertones
Why it works: Behr’s 2023 Color of the Year continues to trend thanks to its serene and modern aesthetic. It brings a gallery-like calm to bedrooms, bathrooms, and office spaces.
4. Sherwin-Williams “Agreeable Gray” (SW 7029)
Tone: Light greige with a slightly warm undertone
Why it works: A go-to for staging, Agreeable Gray is subtle, timeless, and—true to its name—universally liked. It complements almost any furniture or flooring style.
5. Sherwin-Williams “Shoji White” (SW 7042)
Tone: Warm white with soft beige-gray undertones
Why it works: Shoji White offers the warmth of a creamy neutral while maintaining a modern, airy vibe. It’s an excellent choice for open spaces where you want a cozy, cohesive look without stark contrast.
Pro Tip: Keep the Finish in Mind
For most walls, an eggshell or satin finish offers the best blend of durability and style. Save semi-gloss for trim and doors, and matte for ceilings or low-traffic areas.
Paint may seem like a small detail, but it plays a huge role in setting the tone—and price—of your home. Whether you're prepping to list or just wanting a refresh, choosing modern, neutral tones is a strategic (and stylish) decision.
Need help deciding what’s best for your home? The Husky Homes team is happy to provide personalized advice to help you get the most value out of every update.