It’s not uncommon for homeowners to seek a quick phone quote for a paint job by simply providing the number of rooms or square footage.

The assumption is often that calling several painters and comparing prices will help secure the best deal. After all, painting can be a major investment, and who doesn’t want to save money?

In today’s world, shopping for products online has become second nature. If you’re looking for a “Sony XYZ” TV, you can easily search for prices from different retailers and choose the one offering the lowest price.

However, shopping for services like painting isn’t as straightforward as shopping for products.

Here’s why:

1. No Two Homes Are the Same

Even if you compare two houses with the same number of bedrooms, their painting requirements can differ significantly. A few factors that can affect the cost of a paint job include:

• Room sizes and shapes: A larger or oddly shaped room may require more time and effort.
• Windows and doors: The number and type of windows and doors can increase or decrease the amount of labor.
• Colors: Some color schemes require more layers or time to apply.
• Surface preparation: Scraping, cleaning, and priming surfaces can drastically impact the amount of work needed.
• Furniture protection: Ensuring that furniture, floors, and fixtures are properly protected adds to the labor cost.

Any one of these factors can translate into tens, or even hundreds, of hours of additional work.

2. Price vs. Value

Many people assume that the lowest price means the best deal, but this can be misleading. While price is important, what truly matters is value. The best price does not necessarily equate to the best job. A higher quote might represent more thorough preparation, better-quality paint, or more detailed work that will last longer and look better.

To get the best deal, focus on the value of the service rather than just the price. A cheap paint job may end up costing more in the long run if it has to be redone due to poor preparation or low-quality materials.

3. Comparing Apples to Apples

When comparing painting proposals, it’s essential to ensure you’re comparing similar scopes of work. A bid that doesn’t include adequate surface preparation or a prime coat might seem like a bargain at first glance. However, it could lead to costly repairs or repainting down the line.

Make sure each contractor is bidding on the same set of specifications—surface preparation, number of coats, quality of paint, etc. This ensures that you’re comparing similar services, and not just price tags.

4. Consider Warranties and Guarantees

Another factor in determining the best deal is the warranty or guarantee that comes with the service. Reputable contractors will often offer a warranty on their work, ensuring that if any issues arise within a certain period, they will come back to fix the problem at no extra cost.

When evaluating bids, check if the contractor offers a warranty, how long it lasts, and what it covers.

For example, does the warranty cover only the paint, or does it also include labor and repairs for potential surface defects that may show up later?

A good warranty can provide peace of mind and increase the value of the proposal, even if the upfront cost is a little higher.

5. Understand Payment Schedules

Once you’ve identified a contractor offering a great value, make sure to discuss the payment schedule before signing a contract.

Contractors typically request a deposit upfront, with the remaining balance due at different stages of the project. Be cautious of any contractor who asks for the full amount before the job begins, as this is a red flag.

A reasonable payment schedule might look like this:

• Initial Deposit: Typically 10–30% of the total job cost, paid before the project starts.
• Midpoint Payment: A portion paid when significant progress has been made.
• Final Payment: Once the job is complete and you are satisfied with the work.

Ensure the payment schedule aligns with the contractor’s progress on the job, as this helps maintain accountability.

6. Communication is Key

Throughout the process, clear and open communication is vital to making sure you get the best value. From the initial consultation to the completion of the job, the contractor should be responsive, attentive to your needs,

and clear about the project’s timeline. Miscommunication can lead to costly misunderstandings, such as missed details or changes in the scope of work.

Ask the contractor for a clear line of communication—whether through phone, email, or in-person updates—and make sure they stick to it.

Consistent updates on progress, any changes in materials, or unexpected issues can help avoid surprises and keep the project running smoothly.

7. Review the Contract Carefully

Before finalizing the agreement, review the contract carefully to ensure that every detail is covered. The contract should clearly outline:

• Scope of work: Including all areas to be painted, surface preparation, number of coats, and materials used.
• Timeline: Start and end dates, including potential contingencies for weather or unforeseen circumstances.
• Total cost: Including any applicable taxes, fees, or potential additional charges.
• Warranties: Specific details about what is covered and for how long.
• Payment terms: Clear breakdown of payment amounts and deadlines.
• Insurance and Licensing: Proof that the contractor is fully licensed and insured.

A well-drafted contract protects both you and the contractor, ensuring that the terms of the job are fully understood and agreed upon before work begins.

Conclusion: Finding the Best Deal

To truly get the best deal on a paint job, you need to compare value, not just price. This means considering all the variables involved and ensuring that the proposals you receive are for the same level of service and quality.

• Assess the value of each proposal.
• Compare warranties and guarantees.
• Ensure clear communication with the contractor.
• Review payment schedules that match job progress.
• Thoroughly vet contracts before signing.

By focusing on quality, value, and the contractor’s professionalism, you can confidently choose the right painter who will deliver results you’ll be proud of for years to come.

By focusing on the scope of work and the value offered, you’ll avoid ending up with a “proverbial lemon” and instead land the best deal for your painting project.

Read more: Ways to Select the Best Painting Contractor