Our homes could use a makeover from time to time notes Stonelink Property Management. And usually, a fresh coat of paint does the trick. Undoubtedly, nothing screams a new look like a vibrant splash of paint.
Perhaps you’re combing the interweb for painters in Chicago. If so, include Marc Poulos Painting and Decorating in your list of potential candidates. The firm makes good on its promise to deliver premium yet reasonably priced services, a claim few other painting contractors can match.
But while it’s easy for anyone to claim they’re the cream of the crop, often, homeowners get the short end of the stick after taking a contractor’s word for it. To avoid ruing your decision to hire a particular contractor, it’s advisable to follow the steps below:
Seek Recommendations
Your neighbor has always had a keen eye for detail. After all, they’re the picky type that would rather scour through every Yelp review in a 60-mile radius before deciding to try a restaurant. And now that their home got repainted, they can’t help but boast about the results.
Take their advice and get the name of their painting contractor if they were satisfied with their experience. Or perhaps an acquaintance at work keeps gushing about the painter they hired. If you’re considering interior house painting services in Sedona, it’s a good idea to ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have had positive experiences. Additionally, your general contractor can point you in the right direction, as they might have valuable insights into reputable painting contractors in the Sedona area.
Check out Previous Work
If you’ve ever seen a bad paint job, you know the importance of scoping out previous work. The point is to better understand the painter’s style and skill level. Sure, you might have a list to pick from, but it’s advisable to check out the work firsthand.
Usually, competent painters deliver exceptional results consistently, regardless of the job scope, the type of home, or the neighborhood. Hence, with your detective’s hat on, do some digging through offline sources to better understand a prospective contractor’s work.
While at it, ask the painter for references and contact them to better understand their knowledge and customer service. Some of the questions you might ask their clients include:
- Were they courteous and professional?
- Did they meet your project’s timeline?
- Were the results satisfactory?
- Would you recommend them in the future?
- What did you like the most about their work?
Examine Online Reviews
You can find loads of information online about contractors, including reviews from past clients. Check out the contractor’s website for details of their services and customer ratings, and go through the comments to get insight into how they do business.
Also, scour through social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to see what others say. Note that reviews on third-party sites usually carry more weight than on the contractor’s website as they provide a more realistic account of the painter in question.
That being said, some painters can game the system by writing fake reviews or soliciting good ratings. With that in mind, the tips below can help in your search:
- Target detailed reviews – use your fine-tooth comb to analyze thorough descriptions, as they’re more likely from customers who’ve experienced the painter’s services firsthand.
- Look for patterns – pay attention to review frequency and consistency (positive or negative). These better indicate the contractor’s performance.
- Check multiple sites – reviews on one site could be doctored, meaning you should focus on testimonials from various websites.
Contractor responses to negative reviews can also clue you in on their work ethic and customer service. For instance, if they’re responsive and professional, chances are they’re willing to help if an issue arises after completing a project.
Research Prices (But Don’t Skimp)
Who would mind a bargain? Nobody, that’s who! But while it’s tempting to go for a contractor who quotes the lowest price, chances are you might be miffed by the results – a job that makes you want to demand a refund.
Yep, some contractors underbid the competition by cutting corners and using inferior materials. And usually, their results will show it. Hence, don’t high-tail for the lowest bidder but instead opt for a painter who offers quality work at a fair rate.
Generally, expect experienced contractors to charge more as they’re tried and true. Some offer a workmanship guarantee, providing further assurance of the quality of their services.
Even so, compare proposals from different painters to know what you’re paying for. Plus, the proposal serves as a reference point, allowing you to compare various aspects such as materials and price.
Once you’ve narrowed your list of painters, discuss the project’s specifics with your preferred candidate. This includes the timeline, budget, materials, scope, etc. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about a particular aspect of the project.
Your legwork can pay off by helping you find the right painting partner. The goal is to have a rough picture of what to expect once the project commences. Thus, by following the steps above, you can anticipate a lovely home and avoid unpleasant surprises.
