Is Your Painting Quote Too High or Too Low?

You need to paint your home, but after getting a few estimates from local painters in Omaha, you’re feeling unsure. Maybe one quote seems way too high, another feels suspiciously cheap, but you’re not sure which is fair. The last thing you want is to overpay—or worse, end up with a bad paint job that needs to be redone in just a couple of years.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve been serving Omaha homeowners since 1996, and we’ve heard about it all—quotes that are really high without reason and lowball estimates that cut corners. Our experience allows us to break down what makes a painting quote reasonable so you can make an informed decision without regret.

In this article, we will go over the key factors that influence pricing and the warning signs of quotes that are too high or too low. By the time you finish this article, you’ll know what steps to take to ensure you hire the right painter for your home.

What Goes Into a Home Painting Quote?

Before deciding if your quote is reasonable, you need to know what actually determines the cost. A professional painting estimate should include:

• Labor Costs – The biggest portion of your quote is labor. Professional painters charge based on skill, experience, and the time it takes to do the job correctly.
• Paint & Materials – High-quality paint costs more but lasts longer. Other materials, like primer, caulk, sanding blocks, rollers, brushes, sprayers, paper, plastic, tape, and drop cloths, are also factored into your price.
• Prep Work – The best paint job starts with thorough preparation, including sanding, filling holes, and priming. Prep work takes time and directly impacts the longevity of the paint.
• Size & Complexity of the Job – Larger homes, detailed trim work, and high ceilings increase the cost.
• Company Reputation & Experience – More established companies that do quality work often charge more than newer or less experienced painters.

If your quote includes a breakdown of these factors, you’re already in a better position to assess its fairness.

Signs Your Painting Quote Might Be Too High

Not all high quotes are unreasonable, but if any of the following apply, you might be paying more than necessary:

1. Vague or No Breakdown of Costs

A professional company should clearly outline labor, materials, and prep work in your estimate. If all you see is a single high number without explanation, ask for more details.

2. Expensive Pricing Without Reason

Some painters charge premium rates, but unless they use top-tier products and extensive prep work, then their pricing should be competitive with similar companies or painters in Omaha.

3. Excessive Markup on Materials

While professionals charge for materials, they typically get them at contractor pricing. If your quote includes retail pricing or higher, it’s worth questioning.

4. Significantly Higher Than Other Comparable Quotes

If one quote is far higher than others but doesn’t seem to offer anything extra in terms of quality or service, it’s likely overpriced.

Signs Your Painting Quote Might Be Too Low

It’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, but a quote that’s too low can be a red flag. Here’s why:

1. Minimal Prep Work Included

A cheap bid often means the painter is skipping essential steps like sanding, priming, or properly masking areas. This leads to peeling paint and a job that won’t last.

2. Low-Quality Paint & Materials

A lower price might mean the painter is using weak paint that won’t hold up. High-quality brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams cost more for a reason.

3. Lack of Insurance or Licensing

If the painter doesn’t have liability insurance or worker’s compensation, they can afford to charge less—but it puts you at risk if something goes wrong.

4. Rush Job or Lack of Experience

Some painters quote low to get work but then rush through the job to make it profitable. If they’re cutting labor costs by hiring untrained workers, your paint job could suffer.

5. They Ask for a Large Upfront Payment

Most professional companies require a small deposit to secure your spot, but if a painter is asking for most (or all) of the money before starting, be cautious.

What Should You Do If You’re Unsure About Your Painting Quote?

If you’re still unsure whether your painting quote is reasonable, here’s what you can do:

• Compare Quotes – Get at least three estimates from reputable painters in Omaha to see the average pricing.
• Ask Questions – A good painting company won’t hesitate to explain their pricing and what’s included. When investing in your home, you deserve transparency.
• Check Reviews & Reputation – Look at online reviews and past projects. Companies with a history of satisfied customers are more likely to be worth the price.
• Look at the Details – Does the quote include high-quality materials, proper prep work, and a clear scope of work? If so, it’s more likely to be reasonable.
• Trust Experience Over Price Alone – Cheaper isn’t always better, and the most expensive isn’t necessarily the best. Choose a painter with a solid reputation and transparent pricing.

Hiring a Painter in Omaha, NE

Getting a fair price on your painting project isn’t just about choosing the lowest bid. It’s about finding the best value for your money—ensuring you get high-quality workmanship, durable materials, and a job that won’t need to be redone in a few years.

If your quote seems too high, check whether it includes unnecessary add-ons or excessive markup. If it’s too low, be wary of shortcuts that could lead to a poor-quality job. The best painting companies in Omaha will provide clear, detailed estimates and stand behind their work.

Brush & Roll Painting has been helping Omaha homeowners since 1996 by using top-tier materials and doing prep work that makes the job last. We believe in full transparency with our estimates—no hidden fees, no unnecessary upsells, just honest, high-quality painting services.

If you’re ready to get a quote from a trusted Omaha painting company, click the button below to get started.

Still unsure about how to hire the right painter? We’ve put together a helpful guide that walks you through everything you need to know, from evaluating quotes to spotting red flags and asking the right questions. Download our Free Guide to Hiring a Painter today and make your decision with confidence!