Choosing the Right Painter: The Story Behind the Estimates

When it’s time to paint your home, the decision can get complicated—especially after gathering multiple estimates. On the surface, the price might seem like the deciding factor, but often, it’s the details (or lack of them) that tell the real story. Let’s break it down: experience, professionalism, and those little red flags you can’t ignore.

The Tale of Three Estimates

Recently, I received three estimates for a painting project:

• The first two estimates were informative and detailed. These painters clearly knew their trade. They broke down the job step by step—prep work, materials, the number of coats, and how long it would take. They explained how they’d handle tricky areas and the type of paint they recommended. I could tell these painters had experience.
• Then came the third estimate, and here’s where things got interesting. The price was significantly lower. At first, that seemed like a win—who doesn’t love saving money? But as I listened, it was clear the contractor wasn’t as polished. He stumbled over questions, didn’t seem to have a clear plan, and couldn’t tell me much about materials or timelines. It felt… off. Experience matters, and in this case, the lack of it showed.

But here’s where the first estimate took an unexpected turn: professionalism. I couldn’t ignore that the contractor smelled like alcohol. It’s one thing to be experienced, but showing up with peppermint trying to hide something raises a major red flag. If they’re not presenting themselves professionally, how can I trust them to respect my home?

Lessons Learned: What Makes a Painter Worth Hiring?

1. Detailed Estimates Mean Quality Work

A thorough estimate shows preparation, experience, and respect for you as a homeowner. When a painter explains the process clearly—prep, materials, cleanup—it builds trust. A vague or rushed estimate often means corners might be cut.

2. Price Isn’t Everything

A cheap estimate might look appealing, but ask yourself why it’s so low.

• Are they skipping prep work?
• Using lower-quality paint?
• Lacking the skill to price a job properly?

Experience comes at a fair price because quality work takes time, tools, and expertise.

3. Professionalism is Non-Negotiable

It’s not just about paint—it’s about who you invite into your home. Look for signs of professionalism:

• Are they respectful, clear, and prepared?
• Are they presenting themselves in a way that builds trust?

If something feels “off” (like covering alcohol with peppermint), trust your gut. Red flags like these could mean bigger issues during the job.

4. Experience Shows in the Details

Painters who take pride in their craft will show it—not just in what they say but in how they behave. You’ll feel their experience in their confidence, their process, and their results.

Choosing the Right Contractor

At the end of the day, it’s about more than paint—it’s about the confidence that the job will be done right.

• Choose a painter who delivers clear, detailed estimates.
• Value professionalism as much as price.
• Trust the team that respects your time, your home, and your investment.