Selecting the Right Color

By David Olson, Realtor · October 24, 2026 · 3 min read
Selecting the Right Color
Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · License #BK3603584
Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Twin Cities home, Twin Cities Property Finder
Practical notes for Twin Cities buyers, sellers and owners

Ever picked a paint color from a tiny swatch, rolled it on the wall and realized it was all wrong?

Swatches are hard to judge. The fix is simple and saves a lot of time and money.

Here’s an honest look, whether you’re buying or selling nearby.

Painting before you sell?I’ll help you choose colors that appeal to buyers.

Test before you commit

Buy sample sizes of the colors you’re considering. Paint a 2-by-2-foot patch on the wall, or paint sample boards you can move around the room to see them next to floors, furniture and trim.

Look at them in the morning, afternoon and evening, in natural and artificial light. You’ll know quickly whether a color needs to be lighter, darker or replaced.

Why it’s worth it

Paint is affordable. The labor to put it on, and redo it, isn’t. If you’re selling, soft neutrals help buyers picture their own things. See my home staging guide, and if you’d rather leave it to pros, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate.

A simple plan for your choosing paint colors move

I’ve been helping people buy and sell homes across the west metro for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. For the local picture, read my Chaska homes guide or browse neighborhoods in Chanhassen and Victoria.

Your next step in choosing paint colors

Every move is different. When you’re ready to talk about yours, I’m a call or text away.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with buyers and sellers, and that’s where I can help you most in choosing paint colors.

Twin Cities market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David

    Thinking about buying or selling here?

    Get a clear plan from a Realtor who knows these neighborhoods inside and out. Pick the easiest way to reach David.

    Keep exploring

    What could your home sell for today?