Optimal Interior Paint For Apartments - Two Toned Walls?

Question

What is the optimal color to paint the interior of apartments?  Do you believe that different classes of apartments should be painted differently?  If so, explain exactly how you would paint A, B, C, or D class apartments.

I read a few months ago on BP that painting apartment units all white is a mistake that many multi family investors make.  Someone suggested (I can't find the thread now) in that thread to paint units in a two tone color scheme.  I couldn't conceptualize this two tone color scheme until I googled it.  https://www.pinterest.com/explore/two-toned-walls/  It appears two toned means the bottom third or so gets painted one tone and the top another.  Am I far off by thinking people recommend a two toned paint scheme for multi family property units?  Do you need an extra trim piece separating each color on the walls to accomplish this two toned paint scheme?

I would love to know specifically how you paint your apartment units interiors, and your reasoning behind it.  Please provide as many specifics (links, pictures, exact paints) as possible.

Thank you!

Marc C. · Answer

Most of the newer renovations of large properties I've toured lately are utilizing "accent walls," not "two-toned" paint schemes. In other words, 3 walls will be white, and the 4th will be something like a light beige or light grey. Go tour some of the larger,newer complexes and see what they are doing. Then try it in a unit and see what the reaction is.

Jeff B. · Answer

Yeah, bland shades of white IS boring, but other colors will invite prospects to say "Iike the apt but need to repaint another color scheme".  "Tough, no-go, it's as-is"

Unless you're in a metro area class-a upscale property, IMO, it's a risk that is not worth taking and having the tenant repaint - - another risk.