My Painter wants half down. What's the best way to cover my self?

[Ray Loveless]

I'm doing a small flip on a house 2 hours away in Utah. A fellow BP member gave me a referral of another flipper in the area. I called him about contractor suggestions and he mentioned that his son does painting and other handy man work.  This is just what I need! He wants half down for the paint work($2100).  He said he accepts Cash and Venmo only(no credit cards). What would be the best way to cover my self here?  I think a lot of people would just pay the money but I would like at lease enough information I can go after him if he walks away with my money. I don't have time in my busy day to drive down there and have him sign something.  I'd prefer to pay venmo but haven't had experience paying a contractor this way. Any suggestions? thanks. -Ray

[Lynnette E.]

I would not trust someone that you do not have a previous business relationship with and that is not local with a cash upfront payment.  

Just tell him you do not pay upfront.  Tell him that you want a written agreement.  He can sign it and scan it back, or take a photo on his phone and text it back. Tell him that he can tell you what paint and supplies he needs and you can order it on line and pay for it and he can pick it up.  And that you will have a friend stop by weekly and for each milestone you decide, primer?  Ceilings?  Walls?  Trim?  You will pay so much as he finishes the job with about 15% extra held until the very end so you have enough extra to pay for touch ups, etc or hire someone else if he flakes.  And this contract needs a completion date with an interim schedule. 

Don't be a sucker!  You are hiring the son of a stranger referred to you by a stranger....  We want to think everyone on BP is our friend, but they are not.  I have had numerous scammers message me from BP wanting to be partners, wanting me to invest in their whatever...and many have less writing skills that my Nigerian Prince who is going to marry me and make me rich after he gets all his treasures back from his wicked uncle.