So you've decided to hire a professional painter to paint the interior or exterior of your home--perhaps even just a small accent wall.You've done your homework to hire a great painter: You've searched Craigslist, Angie's List, LinkedIn, and asked friends and families for referrals. As recommended, you have gathered three estimates and had face-to-face meetings with the painters . . . now you are ready to make an important decision as to whom to hire . . .the decision should be easy, right?
Commonly, when hiring a painter, pricing is usually the deciding factor. A painter is a painter, after all, right? And regardless of price, all painters adhere to the same standards of quality and service, right? Thinking this, the choice seems simple: Hire the painter with the lowest bid, save a few bucks . . . how can one go wrong with a great deal?
Unfortunately, all home-improvement contractors, including painters, are not equal in quality and service. Consequently, decision making in the construction industry based solely on price can lead to pitfalls and to costly future expenses--and a good price isn't always the best deal. Even if painters are "in the ballpark" with each other, one's service may surpass that of another.
With all this being said, hiring a painter based on price is like buying a Pinto and expecting it to perform like a Porsche--a car is a car, after all, right? With that being said, wouldn't we all rather drive a Porsche over a Pinto?
(Look at it this way: Would you be willing to skip your next appointment with your stylist because the salon down the road is offering a $20.00 cut and color special? When the average labor rate for your mechanic is $85.00, would you trust your vehicle to a mechanic only charging $25.00? Although tempting, you'll probably forgo saving a buck in these areas--and you would most likely question why the price is so low . . . you wouldn't trust your hair or vehicle to just anyone! So, why would you trust the appearance of your home to just anyone?)
So, to save you headaches (and money) in the future, when comparing painters, consider other factors in addition to price. Instead of focusing on price, consider if the services are congruent with the price. Simply put, compare apples to apples.
The best way to compare is to read carefully what is stated in the bid. Look for a thourough bid, including a complete description of services to be provided: Is a supply estimate included in the bid? Will the painter pick up the paint for you, or are you expected to provide the paint? Will you be able to choose the brand of paint to use, or does the painter only use one brand? Does the painter only use flat paint? (Do you have a choice of sheen?) Is color consulting included, or do you need to seek out a professional to assist with the color decision?Does the estimate include minor repair work? What warranties and guarantees are provided?
Other points to consider: Is the painter pet-friendly? How about kid-friendly? Elderly parent friendly? Would you feel comfortable having this person in your home for several days or weeks? Have you called the references provided by the painter and read client testimonials? Did you check out their website and see examples of their work? Will the painter be there for you, if needed, once the project is completed?
On a final note, the most important thing to remember is to find someone you can easily work with, someone that will understand your needs and turn your decorating ideas into a beautiful finished product and provide you with exceptional service. Besides, if the painter you really like is priced a little out of your budget, you can always ask them if they will be competitive with other bids you have collected. Remember: Apples to apples.
Posts
