Cheapest painter around and I interviewed/called about 10…read more
He's done work for 2 other people in my building over the course of the last 5 years and it has all turned out great.
Now, if you want "perfect" go to these guys http://www.yelp.com/biz/all-los-angeles-painting-company-los-angeles
I interviewed, called, and got quotes from a bunch of painters (many on Yelp including Dominguez, Palomo, and others) and ultimately, Carlos painted a 2 Bedroom, 985 square foot apartment, using 3 other guys, and taking 3 days, for $1,200 and I'm happy with the job. I asked them to do extra stuff. Extra priming. 2 coats. Electrical. But if I hadn't it would have been 1,200 bucks, including paint.
They did a very good job. Not "perfect" (there is a little paint on a hinge here or there, because unless you want to pay more, they're not going to take off hinges, etc.- they're going to work FAST) but they are thorough and they are not messy [they did a great job of covering and taping the floors, etc.]
Most importantly, the place looks great. Carlos cares deeply about the end result- is a sweetheart of a guy and is FAIR. He is NOT looking to screw anyone, be lazy, or get rich. He is the most reasonably priced painter out there and does a fantastic job for what you get. I found most painters in L.A. to be unbelievably expensive. Most of them quoted around 3,000 (4,000-2,500). I couldn't believe it! I finally got some $1,600 quotes- but I went with Carlos. My next door neighbor, walking in about a month after Carlos finished, and seeing the paint on my cabinets, is about to hire him.
BIG TIP: Here is the one area where Carlos is lacking, and I'm going to help him with this. Once you decide on the price- email him and say "Hey Carlos- just so I'm clear- we agree that you will prime and paint the place for $xxx, replace all of the lightswitches, wall outlets and phone jacks for $xxx, and install lighting fixtures and smoke detectors for $xxx- for a total price of $xxx due on x/xx. You will work from (date)-(date)."
He was TOTALLY fair with me, but since we hadn't clarified the exact price, I wasn't ready for the additional costs that the electrical work had added to the total cost. But, after calling several electricians, I discovered that Carlos' price for installing the outlets and switches (I bought everything [paint, outlets, switches] at the Home Depot and let him install it) was BEYOND FAIR.
This guy is a hidden gem, a diamond in the rough. Solid, great (not perfect) craftsmanship at beyond-low prices by an incredibly kind, wholesome, humble, sweet and generous man. Sorry for the long review but I am grateful to Carlos. [Tell him Jerry sent you.] Thanks!