How do DIY costs compare to hiring a pro?

Key Takeaway

DIY painting may look cheaper at first glance, but once you factor in supplies, ladders, prep materials, and your time, even a modest room often costs a few hundred dollars. Hiring a professional costs more upfront, but you save days of labor, get access to contractor pricing on paint, and end up with a polished finish that buyers trust.

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The True Cost of DIY Painting

A gallon of quality paint isn’t cheap. At Sherwin-Williams retail prices, expect to spend $55–$75 per gallon — and most rooms need at least two gallons for two coats. Add in a Wooster brush ($12–$15), rollers and trays ($10–$20), painter’s tape ($7–$10 a roll), drop cloths ($10–$20 each), patching supplies ($20–$30), and possibly a ladder ($100–$200 if you don’t already own one).

Total for one average room: $200–$350 at retail prices.

That doesn’t include your time. A single room often takes 10–15 hours spread over 2–3 days once you account for prep, two coats, touch-ups, and cleanup. If you value your own time — especially when juggling moving or listing a home — that “cheap” DIY job quickly adds up.

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What Professionals Charge

Professional painters typically charge $2–$4 per square foot for interiors, depending on region and complexity. That means a 12×12 room (144 square feet of floor space, but 400+ square feet of paintable wall area) may cost around $500–$800 including labor and materials.

At first glance, that’s more than DIY. But pros buy paint at discounted contractor rates — often 30–50% less than retail — and they already own ladders, sprayers, drop cloths, and specialty brushes. You’re paying for skill, speed, and a finish that looks flawless in photos and in person.

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Time vs. Value

The biggest difference isn’t just cost — it’s time and quality. A homeowner might spend a full weekend painting a single room, while a professional crew can prep and finish it in half a day. More importantly, sloppy roller marks, uneven coats, or rough trim edges can actually hurt resale value. Buyers notice, and they often translate imperfections into “this house needs more work,” which can lower offers.

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When DIY Makes Sense vs. When to Hire

DIY works best for small, low-stakes projects — closets, basements, or garages. If you’re painting to sell, or tackling high-visibility rooms like living rooms, kitchens, or bedrooms, hiring a pro almost always makes sense. A professional finish tells buyers the home has been cared for, which can boost confidence and even increase value.

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FAQ

Q: Can DIY painting really be as expensive as hiring a pro?
In some cases, yes. If you need to buy ladders, drop cloths, and multiple gallons of premium paint, your DIY costs can approach professional rates without the same quality results.

Q: Do professionals provide the paint?
Most do, and they buy at contractor discounts — which means your overall material cost may actually be lower than DIY retail pricing.

Q: What if I only need to paint one room?
DIY may save money for a single small project, but be realistic about the time commitment. Even one room can take 10+ hours when done right.

Q: Will hiring pros really make a difference when selling?
Yes. Fresh, even paint makes a home look move-in ready. Buyers may not notice professional work consciously, but they’ll absolutely notice a bad DIY job.

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Conclusion

While DIY painting appears cheaper upfront, the true cost is higher than most homeowners expect. Between $200–$350 in supplies and multiple days of labor, the savings often shrink — especially compared to hiring a professional who delivers faster, sharper, and more reliable results. For sellers, the polished finish of a pro job isn’t just cosmetic; it’s an investment that pays back at the closing table.