selecting a house painter?

[landlocked]

i need to paint my house for the first time. does anyone with experience have tips for picking a qualified contractor?

thanks!

[prowallguy]

Check for liability insurance and workman's comp.
Also check references. Don't just look at them, call them and talk to the people.
Look here for qualified contractors in your area:
PDCA (http://www.pdca.org/findapro.html)
NAPP (http://www.painterconnection.com/)
Make sure they give you a detailed proposal of everything they will do.
Get 3 estimates, compare them. Get more if you are not comfortable.

[marksr]

Referances are a must! Know who you are dealing with. The lowest price may not be the best deal. You don't want to find out later that for a few dollars more you would have gotten twice the job. Never pay up front, even for material. All good contractors have credit at the paint store. Again references are the most important qualification for getting your business.