Is Upgrading Your Paint with the Builder Worth the Investment?

Is the Builder's Paint Upgrade Really Worth the Cost?

One of the most frequent questions I receive from buyers during the home-building process is: "Is it worth upgrading to add some color to the walls?" The standard builder paint package typically includes flat white walls and ceilings, which some may find appealing, but many buyers crave a little more personality in their new home.

The True Cost of a Paint Upgrade

The cost of upgrading to a secondary color during the build process can range from $2,000 to $6,000. Why is this so high? The flat white paint that comes standard is the easiest and least expensive option for builders, primarily because it requires less prep work. Painters can simply spray everything—walls and ceilings alike—without having to carefully "cut in" at the edges. This streamlines the process and minimizes labor costs.

When you opt for the paint upgrade, you're essentially paying to have tint added to the standard flat white paint. While tint itself doesn't increase the cost of paint, the builder adds both a materials and labor markup. The extra cost stems from the prep work needed for applying a second color, along with the added complexity of managing overspray and maintaining crisp edges.

Additionally, builders often provide a very limited color palette, leaving buyers with only a few pre-approved options. It's also worth noting that upgrading your color does not upgrade the quality of the paint—it's still flat paint, which is notorious for being difficult to clean and prone to showing smudges and marks.

Is It Worth It?

In most cases, the cost of a paint upgrade with the builder may not be the best investment. Here’s why:

• Limited Options: You’re restricted to a narrow range of colors, and while your walls might look different, you’re still getting the same hard-to-clean flat paint.
• Costly Markups: The premium you pay includes both the builder’s markup on materials and labor, making this upgrade more expensive than necessary.

A Smarter Alternative

If you're set on having color in your new home, I always advise my clients to wait. You can hire a professional painter right after closing, and here’s the key benefit: you’ll have unlimited color options and can upgrade to more durable finishes like satin or semi-gloss paint, which are far easier to clean and maintain.

By hiring your own painter, you not only save money, but you also gain more control over the final outcome. A post-build paint job often costs less than the builder’s markup, and the quality of both the paint and the craftsmanship can be superior. It’s a win-win situation.

My Final Thoughts

While the idea of upgrading your paint color during the build might seem convenient, it's often not the most cost-effective or practical solution. By planning ahead, you can have the colors you truly want—at a better price, with better quality—and achieve a home interior that better suits your style and needs.

#HomeBuildingTips #RealEstateAdvice #NewConstruction #HomeUpgrades #HomeDesign #SmartHomeBuying #RealEstateInsight #CustomHomes