Have you ever received a quote for a painting project that seemed way too high—or suspiciously low? Maybe you hired a painter in the past and felt like you didn’t get what you paid for. If you're planning a painting project, cabinet refinishing, or even deck staining, you might be wondering: How do I make sure I’m getting a fair price and quality work?
At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve been serving Omaha homeowners since 1996. We know what a professional painting process should look like, from detailed prep work to high-quality paint products that stand the test of time. Because we’ve seen homeowners get burned by low-quality work or misleading quotes, we want to help you make the best decision when hiring a painter.
By reading this, you’ll learn how many quotes to get for your painting project and what to look for when comparing them. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to identify a fair price, the importance of prep work, and how to spot red flags in an estimate. Whether you’re painting your home’s exterior, refinishing cabinets, or staining a deck, this guide will help you make an informed decision and avoid costly mistakes.
How Many Painting Quotes Should You Get?
The short answer: at least three. Getting multiple quotes gives you a better sense of the price range for your project and helps you compare different painters’ processes, materials, and professionalism.
- Avoid Overpaying or Underpaying – If you only get one quote, you have no idea if it's reasonable. A single estimate could be inflated, or it could be so low that it signals shortcuts.
- Compare Prep Work & Materials – Not all quotes include the same level of preparation or the same quality of paint. The details matter.
- Spot Red Flags – If one quote is drastically lower than the others, it could mean the company cuts corners, uses cheap products, or lacks experience.
If you’re still unsure after three quotes, it’s okay to get a fourth for more clarity. There isn’t a shortage of Omaha painters to choose from.
What Should Be Included in a Painting Quote?
A professional painting estimate should be detailed and transparent. Here’s what a good quote should include:
1. Prep Work Details
Prep work is the foundation of a quality paint job. If a painter skips this step, the final result won’t last. Your quote should specify:
- Surface preparation (sanding, patching, caulking, priming, etc.)
- How furniture and flooring will be protected
- How many coats of paint will be applied
2. Type & Brand of Paint
Not all paint is created equal. A professional should list the exact brand and product line they will use. High-quality paint lasts longer, resists fading, and provides a better finish. If a quote doesn’t specify the brand, ask!
3. Labor Costs
The cost of labor is often the biggest part of an estimate. If one quote is significantly cheaper, ask yourself why. Are they rushing the job? Using less experienced workers? Skipping prep work?
4. Timeline & Warranty
A quote should outline how long the job will take and what kind of warranty (if any) is included. A reputable company stands behind its work and will offer a workmanship guarantee.
What to Watch Out for in a Low Quote
If one of your quotes is significantly lower than the others, it’s tempting to go with it. But be careful—cheap quotes often lead to costly problems later. Here are some warning signs:
- Vague or missing prep work details – If a painter doesn’t specify what prep work they’ll do, they might not do any.
- No mention of paint – Low-end paints don’t last, which means you’ll need another paint job sooner than expected. Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore both carry low-end paints, so you should make sure your painter is clear about what quality of paint they are using if you want a lasting paint job.
- Short project timeline – Rushing a job often means sloppy work. A proper painting job takes time.
- No warranty or guarantee – If they don’t stand by their work, that’s a red flag.
While you shouldn’t overpay, the highest quote isn’t necessarily a bad choice. A company charging more may be using top-tier products, spending extra time on prep work, or including a longer warranty. A higher price might mean fewer headaches and a longer-lasting result.
How to Choose the Right Painter
After collecting and comparing your quotes, here’s how to make your final decision:
- Compare the details – Look beyond the price. Which painter is offering the best for what you are looking for? Look at prep work and products.
- Read reviews & check references – Online reviews and past customer feedback can tell you a lot about a company’s reputation.
- Ask questions – Don’t be afraid to ask painters why their process or pricing differs from competitors.
- Trust your gut – If something feels off, it probably is. Choose a painter who communicates well and makes you feel confident in their abilities.
Get a Painting Quote in Omaha, NE
Hiring a painter is a big decision, and you deserve to feel confident that you're making the right choice. By getting at least three quotes, comparing the details, and watching for red flags, you can avoid bad experiences and get the high-quality paint job your home deserves.
Brush & Roll Painting has been serving Omaha homeowners since 1996, providing high-quality painting services with a focus on detailed prep work and premium materials. If you’re ready to compare quotes for your next project, click the button below to get a quote from a team that values craftsmanship and longevity.
Hiring a painter is a big decision, and you want to make sure you're getting quality work at a fair price. But with so many options, how do you know who to trust? That’s why we’ve put together a guide to hiring a painter—to help you understand what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to compare quotes with confidence.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from evaluating estimates to spotting red flags, so you can avoid costly mistakes and get a long-lasting, professional paint job. Don’t leave your home’s next painting project to chance—download the guide today and hire a painter with peace of mind!
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