Your front door says a lot about your home – and it could even be costing you money if it’s the wrong colour.
Experts from property and DIY site housedigest.com have revealed that three popular front door shades could be turning buyers away and lowering your home’s appeal. Citing research from US property platform Zillow, they warn that bright red, cement grey, and olive green are the worst offenders when it comes to colour choice.
Bright red came out on top – or rather, bottom – as the most off-putting shade for potential buyers. While bold and attention-grabbing, it tends to divide opinion and could see fewer people even booking a viewing.
Cement grey was also flagged as a bad option, especially when paired with a white home. The lack of contrast, experts say, can make a property look flat and uninspiring. Olive green also scored poorly, with its “dull appearance” making it difficult to pair with other exterior tones.
First impressions count, especially when you’re thinking of selling. The front door is often the first detail potential buyers will notice — so getting it right matters.
So what should you go for instead? The experts say black is a timeless, elegant option, while white offers a clean, modern look. Softer greens and blues inspired by nature work well in leafy areas, and bolder colours like turquoise or yellow can look fantastic when paired with a simple, neutral backdrop.
The key is choosing a colour that suits your home’s architecture, reflects your style, and sits well within the surrounding area. And with many good exterior paints starting at under £30, giving your front door a new look could be one of the easiest, budget-friendly upgrades you can make — especially if you’re getting ready to sell.
