You can also do white walls as it makes it easier for the painter, especially around baseboards and ceilings, but I found it way too stark. 

For instance, I received an estimate (from a reputable painter) to scrape and paint an entire two family home, all trim, etc. and for 2 coats of paint prior to having the lead inspection.

If you have seen the work of the painters who can complete the work for less than $3,500 I would pay them.  

Now would be a good time to start going to local REIA meetings to network with guys like Austin Gaines to find out who is their plumber, electrician, painter, handyman, gardener, appliance repair, HVAC etc. 

Start networking with folks that you will need help from .Mortgage broker, insurance broker ,  Real estate agent , property manager , lawyer , CPA , painter , plumber, roofer , flooring , AC , general contractor and other trades.  

He paid the painters, flooring, roofers, etc.

I currently work for a painting contractor, we do mostly commercial painting and not residential, but I will say if you know painters and they have accounts at certain places, don't be afraid to ask if you can buy the paint through them and just pay them back.

Currently looking for a painter in the Lehigh Valley area.

Don't go for one that requires a ton of work unless you plan on using it as "education".Investors fail for a variety of reasons, and here are just a few...1) They try to DIY everything and instead of being real estate investors end up becoming a combination of "go-fers, Mr/Mrs Fix-it, painters, plumbers, electricians, land lords, attorneys, etc". 

She was the silent partner (supposed to be), we were the PM, interviewing tenants, show the place, handle complaints, dealing with contractors etc.Now, she's from the old school and wonder why we hire painters for $750 to paint a 2BR apartment.