Choosing your exterior paint color is often complicated by factors outside of your control. For example, you may live in a home where HOA restrictions control your choices. Certain colors may not even be allowed, something you want to know before you choose your exterior paint colors!

But even if this isn’t the case, it’s always a good idea to consider whether your choice in color fits well within your neighborhood.

Reasons to Consider Surrounding Neighborhood

Have you ever driven through a neighborhood and had one house stand out as a real eyesore? What caused you to notice it? In most cases, it’s color! I remember one home in the neighborhood I grew up in that was lavender. We all called it an “ugly” house. When that same house was repainted more subtle colors, we suddenly realized it was an attractive bungalow.

The problem in this case was the homes weren’t Victorians. They were homes ranging from 1920s craftsmans to 1960s ranches. Color would have been a major impediment to the home’s value because anyone purchasing it would see the dollar signs for an immediate paint job.

Always consider what others in your neighborhood are doing. It influences curb appeal. If the trend is toward brighter colors, you can probably get away with it was well. But if most of the homes are in classic, neutral colors, don’t go too far off the trend. If in doubt, choose mid-tone, neutral colors.

Sure white is a classic, but you don’t have to stick with it to be safe. Studies say that a home in a cream-yellow color has the most curb appeal of any other color, yet you don’t see it used that often.

Consider Color Durability

Certain colors are less durable than others. While the paint may hold up just fine, certain colors are more susceptible to UV light and fade over time. This is especially true of red and blue pigments. If you want a color that will resist fading, your best bet is beige and light-to-medium brown. Exterior paint color performance is an important consideration if you don’t want to face a repainting job within a few years.

Consider Color Coverage

Beige and light-to-medium brown paint also provides better coverage than almost any other color. Other shades, especially true reds and yellows, can require multiple coats; up to six, in some cases. Remember, the more coats you’ll need, the more paint you’ll need, and the longer and more expensive the job will be.

Neighborhood, durability and coverage are all things you’ll want to consider as you choose the paint colors for your home’s exterior. Most important is choosing a color or colors that bring out the best features of your home while minimizing any details you don’t want to draw attention to. Neutral colors are usually the safest choice, but you may want to seek inspiration for an exterior color scheme that’s a little more lively.