Curb appeal is one of the most important factors when it comes to selling a home. A lot is on the line in those first few moments, from the second they pull up, to their immediate impression when they walk in the door. Studies show that 80% of potential buyers know whether or not a home is right for them the moment they step inside. That first impression needs to be kept in mind when a listing agent is trying to move a property, and a blue/gray hue can make for an easy makeover.

The majority of Americans consider blue their favorite color, and it’s not difficult to see why. It is both calming and vibrant, and those are two characteristics that people look for in a home. They want it to be a sanctuary, a place for rest and relaxation, but they never want it to be boring. That said, they don’t want a house that looks like a blueberry either, hence the touch of gray.

Nothing makes white trim look more sophisticated than a dark blue/gray. It conjures up visions of the sea and the sky, and even though it’s subtly nautical, still looks great even if you’re landlocked in the Midwest.

These colors make for great photos and allow a house to stand out from others on the block without being obnoxious. Blues and grays also hide signs of aging much better than the ubiquitous off-white paint that colors most homes.

So if sellers are willing to invest the time and money, tell them to paint their home these shades and watch it disappear off the market.