The money and time spent painting your home will quickly pay off in the enjoyment you'll receive and the increased value of your home. Applying a fresh coat of paint indoors can change the look of any room, while touching up exterior items, like shutters and trim, greatly increases the overall curb appeal. When it comes to updating your home, painting is the most economical way to increase value and personal satisfaction.

Many people put off interior and exterior paint jobs, because of the time and effort involved. There are ways, however, to make the task virtually effortless.

Mix it Up

The first step to a great finish is to fully stir the paint before you begin. Even though paints are professionally mixed when you buy them, the colors can separate during storage and transportation. If you fail to completely stir the paint you can end up with an uneven finish. Using a stir stick can be tiresome, and your portable or electric drill offers a great alternative.

Try cutting a plastic clothes hanger into a long "J" shape, and insert it into your drill for a quick mix up. It saves time and conserves your energy for the big job ahead.

Tap Away the Drips

Most people get rid of excess paint by scraping the brush on the side of the tin. The paint drips down the side of the can, causing a big mess and wasted paint. Try tapping away the drips instead. Lightly slap the brush on the rim of the tin, so that any excess paint falls back into the can. The right amount of paint will remain on the brush, allowing a more even finish and saving trips up and down the ladder.

Code Red or Code Blue?

Be aware of any building codes or restrictions in your residential area before you take on the time and expense of painting your home. There are restrictions in many residential areas, such as housing units and condominiums. Your bright yellow stucco home and turquoise shutters may look lovely, but may not meet your neighborhood code. Another consideration is the color, height and size of fences and other outdoor structures. Check first, before spending the time and money.

Lead by Lead-Free Example

It's imperative that you remove any old lead paint that may exist in your home. Lead paint can cause illness in children, including learning disabilities. Check your home for peeling paint that may be lead based. Window sills and wood trims are common culprits. If you find any old, peeling paint, scrape it off and repaint. Your home will not only look better, it will also be a safer place for your kids.

Prime Time

Making sure that you're properly prepared for a painting job can help you to save money in the long run. A good primer coat will result in less time and paint needed for the finishing coat or coats.

There are many jobs that you can do yourself, if you're willing to put the time and energy into it. For example, bevel your existing fence posts rather than spending the money on brand new ones. With a radial saw and some basic knowledge of geometry, you'll have no trouble cutting the perfect angles for your new picket fence.

Painting made easy is really just a matter of preparation. Get all of the materials you'll need before you start, follow these tips and you'll be on your way to getting more enjoyment (and more money) out of your home.