Comparing Apples With Apples on Your Painting Estimates

Most of us have always had the mindset that it is best to get a minimum of three bids when doing a home project. In many cases this is a wise and helpful practice for decision-making. Sometimes it can be down right frustrating when your purpose is to compare apples to apples and the bids just are not lining up. As an estimator for Chism Brothers Painting, I typically bid against 2 to 4 other painters in San Diego, and I can honestly say it is almost impossible to compare bids equally. I have heard a number of homeowners tell me they will get one bid for $2,500 while another will be $15,000. Why such a difference? No wonder people want to get 5 bids before making a decision. Painting is a tricky business. It is not like buying a pack of licorice. Every estimator will look at the project through his or her eyes and give you a price on what they think it will take to paint your home. Many times, one estimator will see a very simple paint job and will miss the details while another contractor will see the project as a Sistine Chapel.

If you enjoy the process of calling on 5 companies, waiting for them to show up, hoping they will write you a bid and then dissecting the estimates to make a wise decision that is wonderful! I hope you make a good choice! However, if you are the type of person who does not have quantities of extra time and wants to know how to make a good and efficient decision on a quality company, let me offer you some simple advice from my experience.

Here are my suggestions

• Research a couple of companies you are interested in contracting with. The best way to start is looking online, asking your friends and neighbors, etc.
• If you are impressed with a company or two, call them up and see how professional they are on the phone. See if they will make and keep an appointment.
• During the estimate, see how the company does on addressing your concerns and the suggestions they make.
• Be willing to share a general idea of what you are hoping to spend on the project. If you have no idea, talk about the cost up front: asking them for a general idea. It will save you a lot of time later. This is a very important step. It will help in comparing apples to apples if you do decide on getting another bid or two. An estimator can give you an idea of what he thinks it will take. If it is high and you like the company, you can discuss ways to save money: 1 coat vs. 2 coats, less or more prep in select areas, the moving of furniture, etc.
• If the above items go really well, trust your judgment and go with who you like!