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Angie Hicks, Angie’s List founder: “When hiring a painter, get estimates for the project. Be sure that you understand what it includes – does it include the prep work – how many coats of paint will it entail – what products will they be using  - and whether they will supply those products…. Be sure you’re comparing apples to apples.”

Greg Mrakich, Greg Mrakich Painting: “Any house built before 1978 the new EPA guidelines are in effect. it’s going to cost you 15 to 20% more just for the contractor to follow the EPA guidelines.  If people empty the room of furniture so I don’t have to do it, they take down the pictures, and they move the tables with all the tchotchkes and stuff  it can turn $1,000 job into a $500 job because I’m not moving furniture – I’m painting.  The guys that say they can paint the exterior of your house for $1,500 might not be a scam per say, because your house might look good for the season, but they are using low-quality paint, they are not doing the prep work.”

Angie’s List Tips:

• Get 3 estimates
• Lead paint guidelines increase costs
• Move belongings yourself
• Check Angie’s List for local reviews on painters