We're also in the middle of house repairs. Right now, we're painting the livingroom and dining room. I bought a 5 gallon bucket of NICE paint from the local paint store for $5. It was a mis-tint from a locAL contractor. I often get 1 gallon cans for $1. You can get them from Lowe's and Home Depot too, but its more expensive from them. Only problem... I ran out of the tan trim color and now I have to actually have them MAKE MORE for me

I do everything myself and take my time. Nothing is better and more cost-effective than doing somethign right hte first time 'round.