Call us
    T: 0161 428 3663E: sales@mkiea.co.uk
    Get a Valuation
    Register
    Address required
    Search
    LogoLogo
    • Selling
    • Auctions
    Sales

    Painting the front of your house: is it worth it?

    about 3 years ago
    Painting the front of your house: is it worth it?

    How your home looks from the outside can determine how successful your sale is. After all, an exterior photo is what estate agents commonly use as the lead image when publishing an online listing, and it’s the first part of a property buyers see when they arrive for a viewing.

    We use the expression ‘first impressions count’ for good reason and potential buyers faced with an exterior that’s cracked, flaking and grubby will make quick assumptions about your property.

    Although repainting your home’s exterior isn’t a quick DIY job, it could be one of the best investments of your time if you’re planning to sell soon. Here we answer the most commonly asked questions about painting the front of a property.

    Will a freshly painted exterior add value to my property?

    You’ll often hear about ‘kerb appeal’ when selling a home and how your home looks from the outside certainly affects its value. A survey by Dulux Weathershield found UK homeowners who gave the exterior of their property a new coat of paint increased its perceived value by 25%. The paint manufacturer also found 93% of buyers are more likely to attend a viewing if the house’s exterior is well maintained.

    Should I also paint my front door?

    If it’s looking a little shabby, a fresh coat of paint on your front door should be high on your list of pre-selling priorities. Research has found the right choice of paint colour can also add value to your home. Opting for blue can increase a home’s value by as much as £4,000, while a freshly painted white front door can add around £3,400. Front doors painted red, black and green are other colours that can add value but a brown front door can shave hundreds of pounds off a home’s selling price.

    Is there an ideal time of year to paint my property’s exterior?

    Professional decorators recommend you attempt exterior painting during the months of April and September as the weather is usually drier and warmer, which allows the paint to cure more quickly. Check the forecast and choose a run of days when rain isn’t forecast.

    Do I need planning permission to paint the front of my property?

    Most homeowners can paint the exterior of their property without getting any special approvals but there are a few instances when planning permission may be required. Consult with your local council’s planning department if you live in a listed building, or if the property is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or conservation area. Requiring planning won’t stop you from painting the outside of your home but the planners/conservation experts may stipulate the colours you can choose from and the type of paint that is used.

    Is there a special type of paint I should use?

    As the exterior of your property is exposed to the elements and the surface you are painting over is different to plastered internal walls, you will need a special type of paint. Look out for masonry paint designed specifically for exterior surfaces. If you are painting your front door, choose your paint based on the door’s composition – wood or uPVC – as you may need a primer before the topcoat. Always prepare the exterior surface before painting – you may find this guide from DIY Doctor useful. 

    If you are getting ready to sell a property and would like advice concerning other ways to improve presentation and add value, contact our team today.

    Share this article

    More Articles

    Converting a garage: 8 key considerations

    Converting a garage: 8 key considerations

    Published 1 day ago

    Earlier this year, Aviva published the results of its survey on how we use our garages. Of those UK garage owners questioned, 28% said they hardly ever used their garage to park their car. 

    Read More
    The smart Cheadle buyer’s guide to survey costs in 2025

    The smart Cheadle buyer’s guide to survey costs in 2025

    Published 4 days ago

    Buying or selling a home in 2025? Don’t get caught out by hidden survey costs. From lender’s valuations to full structural surveys, here’s what each type covers, how much they cost, and why understanding them could save you thousands — whether you’re moving into your dream home or preparing to sell.

    Read More
    Why the Right Asking Price is the Only Thing That Sells Homes in Today’s Market

    Why the Right Asking Price is the Only Thing That Sells Homes in Today’s Market

    Published 5 days ago

    If your property has been sitting on Rightmove or Zoopla with little more than the occasional viewing and a handful of low offers, you’re not alone. Across the UK, sellers are realising that time on the market kills momentum—and the single biggest culprit isn’t presentation, marketing, or even location - It’s price.

    Read More

    Sign up for our newsletter

    Subscribe to receive the latest property market information to your inbox, full of market knowledge and tips for your home.

    You may unsubscribe at any time. See our Privacy Policy.

    Back to Home

    Office Hours 

    Monday – Friday
    9am – 6pm
    Saturday
    9am – 4pm
    Sunday viewings available
    12 – 3 pm

    Information 

    Sellers
    Landlords
    Tenants
    Solicitor Services
    Mortgage Advice
    About the FIA
    CMP Certificate

    Contact us 

    69 High Street
    Cheadle, Cheshire
    SK8 1AA
    t: 0161 428 3663
    Email us

    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    Logo
    © 2025 Maurice Kilbride
    Privacy Policy|Terms & Conditions|Cookie Policy|Complaints Procedure
    Powered by