What Color Should You Paint Your Luxury Rental Property?

Welcome to a world where perception is everything, especially in the realm of real estate. The colors you choose to adorn your property’s walls can significantly impact not only its aesthetic appeal but also its potential for maximizing value and rental income. In this guide, we delve into the art of color selection and its profound influence on your property’s perceived luxury and desirability.

Scroll to the end of this article to learn about three colors you should never paint your home. We explain why these colors scream “STAY AWAY” and provide you with an elegant alternative to each! 

a tarp with many different paint colors on it as someone chooses which color to paint their rental

The color of a property has a profound emotional impact, with warm colors like red and orange evoking feelings of excitement or warmth, while cool tones like blue and green induce a sense of calm and reassurance. Color also significantly influences perceived quality. Neutral and subtle colors often exude sophistication and are associated with high quality, lending a refined aura to a property. In terms of class distinctions, color can serve as a subtle indicator of social standing; traditional colors may reflect elegance and a higher social class, while unconventional colors might appeal to a more modern or eclectic audience. 

Additionally, color is pivotal in shaping first impressions. An appealing color palette can render a property inviting and desirable at a mere glance, establishing a positive outset for further interactions. Through these dimensions, the color of a property transcends visual appeal, serving as a powerful tool in influencing perception and experience. Colors can influence up to 90% of an initial impression. The visual appearance, including color, is crucial for consumers, with 93% focusing on this aspect when considering a purchase. Now, let’s explore the world of luxury colors, divided into four distinct categories, each with its unique charm and potential to elevate your property’s value and desirability

Soft Tans

Tans and creams offer timeless appeal, complementing various decor styles and making spaces feel warm and inviting. When painting your property, few luxury colors have stood the test of time better than tans. These neutral tones appeal to a wide range of potential renters or buyers, maximizing return on investment due to their versatility and elegance.

Greek Villa (Sherwin-Williams)

A warm, creamy off-white offering a neutral backdrop. Renters or buyers would love this color for its ability to make spaces feel open, airy, and elegantly understated.

Candle Cream (Dulux Heritage)

A soft, muted cream exuding subtle elegance and warmth. This color is loved for its ability to create a cozy, comforting atmosphere while maintaining a refined and polished appearance.

Smooth Blues

Smooth blues create serene and tranquil spaces, fostering a desirable atmosphere of relaxation and peace, enhancing the perceived value of a property. Blue is a favorite color for many, with 35% of women and 57% of men preferring it. It’s often associated with trust and reliability.

Watery (Behr)

A light, bright pale blue with harmonious gray undertones. Individuals often appreciate this color for its calming effect, making rooms feel like serene retreats from the outside world.

Hazy Blue (Benjamin Moore)

A vibrant yet soothing clear turquoise with medium intensity. This color is favored for its cheerful and uplifting vibe, providing a lively yet relaxing aesthetic to any room.

Cool Grays

Cool grays offer a contemporary backdrop that is neutral yet sophisticated, appealing to those seeking a stylish, sleek, and calming environment.

Tradewind (Sherwin-Williams)

A tranquil and serene soft muted blue-gray. This color is admired for its subtle elegance and ability to provide a soothing backdrop that complements various decor styles.

Sea Salt (Sherwin-Williams)

A versatile color shifting between blue, green, and gray. Loved for its soothing and adaptable qualities, Sea Salt can harmonize with a wide range of interior styles and furnishings.

Bold Paint Colors For Your Rental Property

Bold colors like deep blues and earthy browns create distinctive, character-filled interiors, attracting those looking for depth and richness.

Deep Ultramarine (Dulux Heritage) 

A dramatic and timeless deep blue exuding richness. People are drawn to this color for its ability to create a sense of luxury and depth, making spaces feel sophisticated and exclusive.

Waxed Khaki (Dulux Heritage)

An earthy brown with a timeless feel. This color is appreciated for its warm and grounding qualities, offering a sense of stability and comfort in a home while still feeling luxurious and refined.

Colors That Scream ‘Stay Away!’

Painting a luxury rental property

The colors listed below could potentially limit the rentability and resale value of your home due to over-personalization or adherence to expired traditions. Pastels, for instance, were commonly used in older times to alert ships that they were nearing a coast. While this can feel charming if done right, certain color schemes age more poorly than others, reducing the broad appeal of your property.

Brickstone Red

This color is overly vibrant, potentially overwhelming spaces. While some might appreciate its energy, it can be too intense for many, limiting its appeal to potential renters or buyers.

Our Luxury Alternative – Coral Pink (Dulux Heritage) 

This is a soft, muted coral that provides a warm and inviting atmosphere without being overwhelming, making it a sophisticated choice for spaces that seek a hint of warmth and vibrancy.

Pastel Yellow

Light and whimsical, but sometimes seen as tacky. Its association with older maritime traditions might not resonate with modern audiences.

Our Luxury Alternative – Flax Seed (Dulux Heritage) 

This is a subtle, muted yellow with earthy undertones, providing a warm and cozy feel without being too bright or childish, making it a refined and versatile option.

Lavender Purple

Purple was once a symbol of wealth but has since become associated with more specific tastes. While it might be charming to some, its strong personality could deter many potential renters or buyers.

Our Luxury Alternative – Violet Night (Dulux Heritage) 

This is a deeper, more subdued shade of purple that exudes elegance and sophistication without being too bold or polarizing, offering a modern and tasteful alternative to traditional lavender.

Elevating Your Property with Luxury Colors

Transforming your property into a luxurious haven through the strategic selection of paint colors is an investment that can significantly impact its value and rental income. From timeless tans and serene blues to contemporary grays and bold browns, your choice of luxury colors can elevate your property’s appeal. Yet, it’s equally crucial to steer clear of overwhelming or outdated hues, ensuring that your property resonates with a broad audience and maximizes its potential in the competitive real estate market. 

So, as you ponder what color you should paint your property, remember that this decision has the power to shape the future success of your investment, creating a canvas for real estate prosperity. If you’re looking for more tips on taking your property to the next level, check out this article where we cover how to maximize your property’s exposure to the rental market.