Front Door Colors That Boost (or Tank) Your Home's Value

Originally featured in the Cribbs Report - May 2025 Edition

We've all been there – scrolling through home listings when a particular property catches your eye. Often, it's not the square footage or the manicured lawn that first grabs your attention, but that striking front door. But did you know that your choice of front door color could potentially add thousands to your home's value – or subtract from it?

The Psychology of First Impressions

As Dallas-based Zillow Premier Agent Christie Cannon points out, "You want the buyer to fall in love as soon as they pull up [to your home]. Then they're getting out of the car with their agent, they're walking up to the front door. And that front door matters."

That initial impression sets the tone for the entire viewing experience. Your front door is essentially your home's handshake – the first interaction potential buyers have with your property. And just like in personal relationships, first impressions matter.

Colors to Avoid

Before you crack open that paint can, let's talk about which colors might actually hurt your selling price:

1. Gray

While gray remains wildly popular for interiors (dark gray can actually increase offer prices in kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms), it falls flat on front doors. According to Zillow research, homes with cement gray front doors received offers averaging $3,365 less than comparable properties.

2. Bright Red

Going bold doesn't always pay off. Though some buyers might appreciate the statement a bright red door makes, data shows they're less likely to schedule tours of these homes. When it comes to your entryway, subtlety often wins the day.

3. Saturated Blue & Olive Green

Homes with front doors in these shades tend to receive offers approximately $1,300 below average. Additionally, potential buyers are less likely to request tours when these colors greet them at the entrance.

Colors That Add Value

Now for the good news – certain front door colors can actively boost your home's value:

1. Black

The clear winner in the front door color wars is black. Not only does it make homes appear more appealing in listings, but it also encourages more in-person tours. Zillow research indicates a black front door could boost your offer price by around $6,450 compared to the typical U.S. home value. That's an impressive ROI for a single can of paint!

2. Mid-tone Brown

Terracotta-like brown tones that mimic natural wood can add approximately $300 to offer prices compared to white doors. These earthy hues suggest durability and timelessness that buyers are willing to pay for.

3. White or Chalky Blue

These classic, understated choices lead to higher tour intentions and general interest from home shoppers. They don't compete for attention, allowing the rest of your home's features to shine.

What This Means For You

Whether you're preparing to list your property or just considering a refresh, your front door color deserves careful thought. While painting your door won't guarantee a specific sale price, it's one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make to enhance your home's appeal.

Remember to consider your home's existing exterior colors and materials when making your selection. The goal is harmony, not contrast for contrast's sake.

For our Cribbs Report readers looking to maximize their property value, sometimes the smallest details make the biggest difference. A $50 can of black paint might just be the best investment you make this year.

What color is your front door? Are you considering a change based on these findings? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected] or tag us in your before-and-after photos on social media!

Stay Smart! - Will Founder of Cribbs Report