Photo by Kaboompics .com on Pexels.com

Photo by Malte Lu on Pexels.com

Photo by rawpixel.com on Pexels.com

This week, as I’ve been painting two houses that are turning over, it’s occurred to me that I’ve picked up a few good pointers (many specific to being a landlord) that I’m happy to share:

• Use the same paint color (including trim) on all your properties.  This will save time and many a headache!  Of course, when you first get a property and only need to touch up with the preexisting paint, this would not apply.  But when it’s time to repaint your property, why not simplify?
• Keep some spare paint at your house, in case the movers “pack” the paint at the rental.
• Label each can with the property address.  You’ll think that you’ll remember which paint goes where.  You won’t.
• Photograph the paint formulas and colors.
• Store the paint upside-down.  Seriously.
• Invest in a canvas drop cloth.  They are so much easier to use than plastic or newspapers, and do a better job protecting surfaces.
• Invest in high-quality paint, paintbrushes, and rollers.  These don’t have to be the most expensive (get recommendations).  The right tools make the job so much easier!
• But also have a few throw-away brushes on hand.
• Try the new angled brushes with short handles.  These are so much easier on your wrist!
• Use painters’ tape.  I know that you’ll be careful.  And that you got straight A’s in art class, and your hands are so steady that you always won “Operation” as a kid.  USE THE TAPE.  The job will look professional, and the time it takes to apply will pay off when painting and in saved headaches.
• While you’re at it, buy the wider painters tape.  It will catch more drips.
• Use oil-based primer to cover up stains.
• Clean the walls before you paint.  This can save time touching-up (some areas won’t even need to be painted), and the paint will adhere better when you still need to paint.
• Your goal, for touch-up painting, is to do as little as possible.  The paint isn’t likely to match exactly (mainly due to fading on walls), so anything that can be cleaned away is a bonus.  If you do have to paint, use a light hand.
• Instead of cleaning brushes and rollers each evening, wrap them up well in plastic and store in the refrigerator.   This really works!