HOW TO PAINT A ROOM-

Painting your home’s interior is a wonderful way to refresh a room or get your home ready for sale. It’s also a fairly simple task you can complete yourself — no professionals required! But beware there is some bad advice out there you should avoid. That’s why we’ve put together a tips for successfully painting your home based on our years of real estate experience.

1. You can’t paint over wallpaper

We’re not sure where you’re getting your advice, but you should not paint over wallpaper. While wallpaper can be a wonderful way to cover your walls, it should be removed if you decide to paint instead. Otherwise, it’s unlikely you’ll get a smooth, even finish. And what happens if the wallpaper starts to peel down the line?

2. Dark colors don’t always make a room appear smaller

Some people will tell you that light colors make a room feel bigger, while dark colors make it feel smaller. But this isn’t always the case. When you’re choosing a paint color for a room, think about how you want the room to feel. Dark accent colors add variety and can make a small room feel larger. Dark colors can also make a large room feel cozier.

3. You DO need a primer

Just because your current paint is smooth with no chips or cracks doesn’t mean you can get away with not using primer. If you want your paint job to look professional and last a long time, then you must prime the walls first. Primer helps the paint adhere to the walls and leads to a smooth and polished surface.

4. You DO NOT have to always paint your trim white

Yes, white trim is a very classic look that goes well in most spaces. But that doesn’t mean you need to follow the crowd. The trim is a great way to show off your personal tastes. Instead of painting your trim white, consider painting it the same color you paint the wall. That can make the room appear taller than it actually is. You can also choose a color that complements the wall color for something unique. Another classic choice is to paint the trim black.

5. The brand of paint you choose DOES matter

While it’s tempting to just buy a gallon of the cheapest brand of paint, you should know that you’ll get what you pay for. There is a big difference in quality between brands of paint. You should research what brands of paint are of the highest quality and choose the best one you can afford. When in doubt, ask a professional at the store. They can help you find just the right paint for your specific project.

6. You DON’T always need two coats of paint

Finally, there is a persistent myth that you must use at least two coats of paint regardless of what it is you’re painting. But honestly, it just isn’t true. The number of coats you need for your project depends a lot on the condition of the surface and the quality of the paint you’re using. If you’ve used primer and a top-quality paint as we have recommended, then in some cases you will only need one coat. Think of the time and money you’ll save!

For other real estate advice or tips on how to improve your San Antonio home before you put it on the market, contact Melissa Muse Wiggans, Real Estate Broker and Owner of Real Estate Muses. Her team of top San Antonio Realtors specialize in residential real estate for those buying and selling homes in San Antonio as well as military families and others moving or relocating to San Antonio, TX. Visit realestatemuses.com or call 210-485-9913 today.