How do I get my first painting clients?

Referrals and reviews from early jobs, local directory listings, and job-lead sources like WEDO Find Work. A fast, professional estimate helps you close them.

What tools does a new painting business need?

A reliable way to estimate, a contract, and an invoice you can get paid on. WEDO bundles all three for a flat $19.99/month.

WEDO › Guides

How to start a painting business

The practical steps to launch a painting business — from licensing to landing your first jobs and looking professional from day one.

Register, license and insure

Set up your business, get the licenses your state or county requires, and carry liability insurance (and workers' comp if you have a crew). 'Licensed & insured' is one of the first things property managers and homeowners look for.

Nail your pricing

Know your production rates and build overhead and margin into every quote. A calculator or app keeps pricing consistent so you don't underbid your first jobs.

Get your first jobs

Ask every happy customer for a review and a referral, list yourself in local directories, and use WEDO Find Work to see real painting jobs posted near you.

Look professional from day one

A fast, branded estimate, a signed contract and a clean invoice make a new painter look established. WEDO gives you all three in one app for $19.99/month, with a free trial.

Look pro from day one — free

Snap a photo, get a priced estimate in minutes — then send a contract and invoice from the same app.

Start free — $19.99/mo, all-in Try the free calculator

FAQ

How do I get my first painting clients?: Referrals and reviews from early jobs, local directory listings, and job-lead sources like WEDO Find Work. A fast, professional estimate helps you close them.
What tools does a new painting business need?: A reliable way to estimate, a contract, and an invoice you can get paid on. WEDO bundles all three for a flat $19.99/month.