Hiring a painter isn’t just about picking the lowest bid or grabbing the first name on Google. In Santa Rosa and across Sonoma County, your home is more than a place, it’s part of your story. So before you trust anyone with a brush, make sure you’re asking the right questions, checking the right boxes, and working with a team that actually cares about the results.
As a local company rooted right here in Santa Rosa, Mike Chavez Painting has spent over 20 years helping homeowners avoid costly mistakes and get beautiful, long-lasting paint jobs. Here’s what you absolutely must consider before hiring a local painters Sonoma County.
Check for Local Experience, Not Just Licensing
Any painter can say they’re qualified, but how many truly understand the local climate, architecture, and wear-and-tear conditions unique to Sonoma County?
At Mike Chavez Painting, we’ve spent decades learning how the Santa Rosa sun bakes exterior paint, how the fog settles in Petaluma, and how moisture impacts older homes in Sebastopol. That firsthand, hyper-local experience allows us to recommend the right prep and products, not just “what’s standard.”
Pro tip
When searching for “local painting contractors near me in Santa Rosa,” look for teams that highlight regional expertise, not just service areas.
Surface Preparation Is Everything
Anyone can slap on a coat of paint. But without proper prep (scraping, sanding, caulking, priming) it won’t matter how fancy your paint is. It’ll peel. It’ll bubble. And you’ll be repainting way sooner than you should.
We pride ourselves on being surface preparation specialists. Whether it’s bare wood, aging stucco, or new drywall, we tailor our prep process to ensure the finish lasts. That’s the difference between a quick fix and a real investment in your home.
Beware of Lowball Estimates
Here’s the hard truth: low bids usually mean corners are being cut. Maybe the prep work is rushed. Maybe low-quality paint is being used. Maybe the crew is underpaid or untrained.
We get it, budgets matter. But if a price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
At Mike Chavez Painting, our estimates reflect a complete, transparent scope of work, including product quality, timeline, and labor. No surprises. No shortcuts. Just honest pricing for honest work.
Communication Matters (A Lot!)
One of the top complaints we hear from clients who’ve worked with other painters? Lack of communication. The crew showed up late. No one explained the process. The job dragged on.
We built our reputation on clear communication and integrity. From your first call to the final walkthrough, we keep you informed and in control. Your home isn’t just a job site, it’s your space, and we respect it as such.
Look at Their Community Impact
Here in Sonoma County, we believe businesses should give back. That’s why we launched the “Doing Good for Those Who Do Good” program, offering free painting projects to nonprofits and families in need.
Choosing local painters in Sonoma County who care about the community isn’t just feel-good, it’s smart. It reflects a level of commitment, reliability, and heart that translates into every job they do.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask the Hard Questions
Before you sign anything, ask these:
- What’s included in your prep work?
- What paint brands do you use, and why?
- Are your crews employees or subcontractors?
- How do you handle unexpected repairs?
- Can I see local references or reviews?
If the answers feel vague or rushed, keep looking.
We love when clients ask us tough questions. It shows they care about quality, and we do too.
Take Your Time & Choose the Right Painter
Need local painters in Sonoma County? Get someone you can rely on!
Here’s some honest advice: take your time! Don’t go for the lowest price tag. Dig a bit deeper and ask questions. Find the company that cares about more than just the bare minimum!
Partner with Sonoma’s Trusted Painting Company
At Mike Chavez Painting, we don’t believe in shortcuts. We believe in doing things the right way, every time. Every member of our team is a skilled professional who treats your home like it’s their own, because respect, integrity, and pride in our work aren’t just talking points for us.
They’re how we do business every day.
Whether you’re updating your home’s curb appeal, refreshing an interior space, or investing in cabinet refinishing or wood staining, we’ve got the experience, tools, and attention to detail to deliver long-lasting, beautiful results. At Mike Chavez Painting, we don’t just paint houses, we elevate them, protect them, and help them shine for years to come.
Contact us online today or give us a call at (707) 623-5850 to get started.