A Fresh Coat of Paint to Increase Your Home’s Value

A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a space, but modern painting techniques take it even further. Whether you want to add character with a bold accent wall, experiment with geometric patterns, or create a soft ombré effect, paint can make a huge impact.

And it’s not just about looks. The right interior updates can also increase your home’s value, making it more appealing to buyers. If you’re thinking about selling a home in Maine, this guide covers the best accent wall ideas, painting techniques, and why removing outdated wallpaper should be a priority.

How Interior Painting Increases Your Home’s Value

A fresh, modern interior makes a big difference when selling a house in Maine. Painting is one of the most cost-effective home improvements with a high return on investment. Here’s why:

Creates a Move-In-Ready Look

Buyers love homes that feel fresh, clean, and updated. A newly painted home eliminates signs of wear and tear, making it more attractive and easier to sell.

Enhances First Impressions

The moment buyers walk in, they start assessing the home’s condition. Neutral and modern paint colors create a bright, welcoming atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

Increases Perceived Value

A well-painted home looks more expensive. When buyers see freshly painted walls with on-trend colors and high-quality finishes, they assume the home has been well maintained, which can justify a higher asking price.

Appeals to a Wider Range of Buyers

Certain colors and outdated wallpaper can be a deal-breaker for potential buyers. A fresh coat of neutral or trending colors makes it easier for buyers to envision themselves in the space.

Boosts Marketability and Selling Speed

Homes with modern, professionally painted interiors often sell faster because they stand out in listings and attract more attention.

High ROI for a Low Cost

Unlike major renovations, interior painting is affordable but has one of the highest ROI percentages of any home improvement. On average, a freshly painted interior can increase a home’s value by 2-5% or more, depending on market conditions.

Best Paint Colors for Selling a Home in Maine

If you’re painting with resale in mind, stick to neutral, sophisticated tones that appeal to most buyers:

• Warm Whites & Soft Grays: Clean, classic, and versatile
• Light Beige & Taupe: Cozy and inviting
• Soft Blues & Greens: Calming and perfect for living spaces
• Deep Charcoal or Navy for Accents: Adds modern sophistication

Buyers today want homes that feel updated and move-in ready. A fresh coat of paint, especially in a modern style, can instantly make a home feel more polished.

Old Wallpaper? It’s Time to Let It Go

If your walls are still covered in faded floral wallpaper from the 90s, it’s time for an update. While wallpaper can still be stylish in certain designs, older patterns tend to make a home feel outdated.

How to Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Walls

• Test a Small Area: Try peeling off a corner. If it comes off easily, you’re in luck. If not, you’ll need a little more effort.
• Use Warm Water and Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and vinegar, then spray it onto the wallpaper to loosen the glue.
• Try a Steamer for Stubborn Wallpaper: A wallpaper steamer can help lift adhesive quickly.
• Smooth and Prime the Wall: Once the wallpaper is off, sand any rough spots and apply a primer before painting.

Accent Wall Ideas That Work in Any Maine Home

An accent wall is an easy way to refresh a space without repainting an entire room. Here are some styles that work beautifully when selling a house in Maine.

Deep, Bold Colors for a Statement Look

A dark navy, charcoal, or forest green accent wall adds depth and sophistication. This works especially well in living rooms and bedrooms with light-colored furniture.

Nature-Inspired Tones for a Cozy Feel

Maine’s coastal and woodland landscapes inspire earthy greens, soft blues, and warm taupe shades that bring a calming, natural feel to a home.

Geometric Patterns for a Modern Touch

For an artistic, eye-catching look, geometric designs can make a room feel fresh and contemporary. Use painter’s tape to create triangles, diamonds, or asymmetrical shapes for a unique effect.

Ombré and Gradient Walls for an Artistic Look

Ombré walls, where colors gradually transition from light to dark, add a soft, elegant touch to a space. This works beautifully in bedrooms, nurseries, or home offices.

Textured Paint and Faux Finishes for a High-End Feel

If you want the look of exposed brick, marble, or concrete, textured paint techniques or faux finishes can create the effect without the cost of real materials.

Painting Techniques That Can Refresh Your Home

If an accent wall feels like too much of a commitment, these stylish painting techniques can still make a home feel modern and updated.

Color Blocking for a Bold, Modern Look

Using two or more contrasting colors to create strong visual sections works well in contemporary or open-concept spaces.

Two-Tone Walls to Add Dimension

Painting the bottom half of a wall a darker shade and the top half a lighter color creates a balanced, elegant look. This is especially popular in dining rooms and bedrooms.

Metallic and High-Gloss Finishes for a Luxurious Feel

A metallic or high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully and adds a touch of luxury, especially in accent spaces like behind a bed or in a powder room.

Stripes and Stencils for a Custom Design

Stripes can make a room look taller, while stencils allow you to create intricate designs without the permanence of wallpaper.

Final Thoughts

For homeowners looking to sell or real estate agents in Maine preparing a listing, interior painting is one of the easiest ways to increase a home’s value and attract buyers. Whether it’s neutral colors for mass appeal, bold accent walls for personality, or wallpaper removal for a modern touch, fresh paint makes a home feel updated, well-maintained, and move-in ready.

A little paint can go a long way in making a lasting impression and ensuring a quicker, more profitable sale. If you're working with real estate agents near you or preparing your home for the market, a fresh coat of paint can make all the difference.

If you have any more questions, contact us.