Restrictions

• If you live in an area governed by a homeowner's association, your exterior paint options may be limited. Contact the homeowner's association and ask for a list of approved colors or request an appointment to discuss house colors.
  
  

Architecture

• According to online magazine Apartment Therapy, you can look to your home's history and architecture for color inspiration. Cape Cod-style architecture lends itself to dark grays and brick red. However, Victorian architecture is well suited to taupe and rich plum colors.
  
  

Style

• Whether your style is modern, rustic, early American or an eclectic mixture of styles, honor your own taste and personal preferences when painting your home. You are the one who will live there. Purchase paint samples and try a few out on a back wall of the home. Let the colors remain for a few days or until you're confident in your choice.