Just in time for fall—out with the warm and in with the cool! In today’s real estate market, there is a trend that many sellers are overlooking. It is one of the most basic and cost-effective ways to increase the values of their homes—interior paint. What the studies are saying about millennial homebuyers as it pertains to preferences in real estate are true. Millennials are not looking to put sweat equity into their homes. They are looking for something move-in ready. End of story. Millennial homebuyers do not have the slightest desire to paint even one room, much less an entire house. Millennials are continuing to flood the market for both rentals and purchases, and they are willing to pay a premium for homes whose previous owners have made wise paint choices. Cool is Cool Cool light colors (greens and blues) can brighten a space that may have limited natural lighting—or even make a smaller room feel larger. The trend toward cool doesn’t stop at the cool light colors; the experts are projecting a big comeback in bolder cool colors too. According to HGTV’s Trend Forecast: 2020 Colors of the Year, Classic Blue was voted their color of the year. And millennials love all things HGTV. This is what Pantone has to say: “We are living in a time that requires trust and faith. It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by Pantone 19-4052 Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on.” In these historic times, who couldn’t use a color that is reflective and tranquil? Not Just for Walls The use of bold or light colors that venture off the “neutral” path of the past 10 years does not just stop at full wall paint either. A good rule of thumb is to choose a color two shades darker than the other walls in the room. Bold, cool colors can be used for an accent wall or trey ceiling to create an accent island for a bold contrast in an otherwise boring kitchen. Or, consider painting bottom or upper cabinets a bold or cool color paired with a neutral white or light gray. You can also paint a tired old bathroom vanity and mirrors. Jazz up the exterior of your home by painting your garage doors, front door and shutters—or a combination. In the end, not only does a fresh coat of paint have the potential to make the room look and feel new, it can easily increase your demographic, foot traffic and the price a buyer is willing to pay for your home.