Don't make a rush decision during the estimate. Take the time to research the offer and see if the numbers add up, for a quality paint job to be performed.

Contracting with the first available contractor is never a good idea. Get bids from three different painting companies and compare not only the prices, but the material used, and the number of man-hours that will be spend on the job.

Get all promised items in writing. Don't assume something will be done just because it seems to be the right way to do it.

Know how you hire. Always ask for a picture ID of the person you signing a contract with, and compare it against the painting license.

In bad economy it takes the same amount of money to do a quality paint job, as when the business is good. Contractors who are good at what they do will not come cheep. The lowest bid most often will not have the best value for the money.