First off, I feel your pain.
The issue seems to be similar to many independent contractor guilds. Reading your text reminded me of years of dealing with various painters, plumbers, drywall finishers, carpenters, block layers, etc. Often the contractor seems to show relative proficiency in using the phone, email, or text forms of communication media when he is in the need of a new job or needs money. All too often they lose the communication skills after they have committed to do the job or worse off, already began the job. Contractor amnesia? The traits are more common in some fields than others. I suspect it boils down to a few common variables, namely: relative demand, inability to say no, and ineptitude in business management. Poor business planning, scheduling and money management skills seem to be way too common. My litmus test is made during the face-to-face interview. If there is even the slightest indicator of inconsistent, flaky, erratic behavior; they are out of the running. Finding a guy who huffs fumes for a living that doesn't show any of those traits is a challenge...but isn't part of the challenge to locate rare items part of this hobby? Pink unicorn hunting anyone?
Oh, if you do find that good/reasonable/reliable painter; keep it a tightly held secret.
Last edited by Paul_WNC; 12/21/2017 1:59 PM.
