A fresh coat of paint is one of the most impactful and cost-effective ways to transform a home's interior. As a house flipper, you'll almost always need to include interior painting in your scope of work.
During your inspection, go beyond simply assessing the current colors. Look for any underlying issues that could affect the painting process and increase costs:
Color Trends: Evaluate the existing wall and ceiling colors. Are they neutral and contemporary, or are they dated and unappealing? Consider current color trends in your market.
Finish Selection: Assess the current paint finishes (flat, eggshell, satin, etc.). Do they suit the function of the room? For example, high-traffic areas might benefit from more durable finishes.
Visual Appeal: Do the walls and ceilings have a smooth, even finish? Are there any imperfections that need to be addressed before painting?
Neighborhood Standards: Compare the interior paint quality and colors to those in comparable properties. Are other flippers using accent walls, bold colors, or unique painting techniques?
This section will guide you through inspecting interior surfaces and identifying potential painting challenges.
Condition Assessment: Evaluate the condition of the walls and ceilings.
Woodwork: Inspect the condition of the woodwork, including doors, trim, and baseboards.
#2c Odors and Special Considerations: Identify any odors that could affect the painting process.
Interior painting is almost always a must-do for house flips. A fresh coat of paint instantly brightens and updates a space, making it more appealing to buyers. Even if the existing paint seems okay, it's likely not in the perfect condition that buyers expect in a newly renovated home. Investing in interior painting is a surefire way to enhance the perceived value of your flip.
To estimate interior painting costs: