On average, painting a 950 square foot apartment in Phoenix will cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Every apartment is different, though, so consider these points before you choose your paint – or your painting crew.

1. Get official permission first. If you’re renting, check in with your landlord. Selecting a neutral color of good qualitypaint will help to get your project approved. You might be pleasantly surprised if he or she offers to pay at least part of the cost. As a condo owner, run your plans by the condominium committee or homeowners association.

2. Make up your mind about what exactly needs to be painted. You probably are thinking of redoing the walls, but what about the trim and the ceiling, as well? That will involve extra work and expense, but if you leave them untouched, these areas are likely to look tired and dreary next to your fresh wall paint.

3. Calculate how much paint you’ll need. The accepted formula says that 1 gallon of paint will cover approximately 400 square feet (about the size of a bathroom), applying a single coat. Allow more if you would like multiple coats, particularly when you are going from a dark to a lighter color.

4. Take into account your unique requirements. Here are a few special painting needs: having wallpaper removed prior to painting painting over rough plaster, wood, or even brick adding special effects, such as stencils or ombretechniques .