Paint. It's amazing how such a small word can be the source of comfort or regret. When it comes to paint, our agents have seen it all. From poor color choices to lousy techniques, paint regret is real and can have a real impact on the value of your home. Fortunately, you can do some simple things to protect yourself from bad decisions and utterly disastrous paint colors.

1. A Penny Saved is Sometimes Pound Foolish. Your home will appreciate in value. It's an asset that you must maintain and protect. While saving a few bucks on a can of paint may seem like a good idea, the fact is that poor quality paints are inferior to costlier but longer-lasting, options.
   
   
2. Know Your Limits. YouTube and Google are great places to get ideas and learn new tips and techniques. However, don't assume you're an expert just because you've watched a few episodes of This Old House or read up on the latest painting techniques. If you are not 100% confident that you can paint the interior/exterior of your home to the highest quality standards, hire a professional to do the work.
   
   
3. Unique is Fine; Too Unique is Questionable. While you may love a certain color, if it's too bold and overpowering, it's likely to leave a bad and unforgettable impression in the mind of a prospective buyer. If you opt for a unique color out of the mainstream palette, plan to repaint the room in the future before you list your home.
           
4. Paint for the Room. Smaller rooms with limited natural light should always be painted a bright color. Similarly, rooms with dark-colored features such as fireplaces, flooring, etc., should be painted with a contrasting color. Remember, too much of a good thing is, well, too much. While you may love a certain color, too much of it or too many shades of it will be overwhelming, overpowering, and uncomfortable.
   
   
5. Choose Your Painter Carefully. Your home is valuable, and you shouldn't let just anyone work on it. When hiring a painter, always confirm they maintain the proper insurance and licenses. Additionally, always confirm reviews and ask for recent examples of homes similar to yours that they have worked on in the area.
   
   
6. Dig Deeper Than Paint. Ever hear the expression painting a pig? Homeowners often mistakenly believe that painting the home will change how it feels to live there. In fact, that is only one small part of the process. If you don't remove the clutter, update the curtains, etc., these blemishes will still be noticeable when the painting is done. Since you will have to remove furniture and clutter to paint the room properly, it is a perfect opportunity to give the room a makeover.
   
   
7. Hire an Interior Decorator. Hiring an interior decorator is worth every penny. They can help you identify color trends and select colors that match both the style of home and your desired comfort. More often than not, they can recommend adjustments to your initial paint choice, texture, finish, etc., that will deliver the finished results you desire.

We'd love to tell you more about the paint schemes and designs we see in Bakersfield homes for sale. Contact us to speak with our team regarding the paint colors and finishes prospective buyers are talking about and eager to see.