Decorating prices can vary a lot, and that’s exactly why homeowners get stuck comparing quotes that don’t feel comparable. In this guide, you’ll learn how a house decorator typically charges, what affects the final price, and how to judge value so you don’t pay twice for the same room.

The main ways a house decorator charges

Most house decorators price work in one of three ways: a day rate, a per-room price, or a full job quote. Each approach can be fair, as long as the scope is clear.

A day rate often suits smaller jobs or snagging lists where the work can change as you go. A per-room price can help you budget, but you need to know what “a room” includes (walls only vs walls, ceiling, and woodwork). For full properties, a whole-job quote is usually best because it reflects the actual condition of the home and the time needed to prep properly.

If you’re comparing quotes, always ask what’s included. Two prices can look miles apart when one includes prep and materials and the other doesn’t.

What affects the cost the most?

The biggest cost driver is time, and time usually comes from preparation. A house decorator will spend more time (and charge more) if walls need filling and sanding, paint is peeling, woodwork is damaged, or stains need blocking.

Access also matters. High ceilings, staircases, awkward corners, and lots of detailed woodwork take longer than a straightforward square room.

Finish choices can affect price too. A durable, wipeable wall finish may cost more in materials but can save you money long-term because it holds up better in busy areas. Wallpapering can add cost because it demands careful measuring, pattern matching, and a cleaner level of prep.

What should be included in a proper quote?

A reliable house decorator should give you a quote that feels specific, not vague. You want to see what areas are included, how many coats they allow for, and what preparation work they expect to do.

A good quote often covers:

• Protection (floor coverings, masking, keeping dust down)
  
  

• Preparation (filling, sanding, caulking, priming, stain blocking)
  
  

• Paintwork (walls, ceilings, woodwork, doors, skirting)
  
  

• Wallpapering details if needed (lining paper, feature walls, pattern matching)
  
  

• Clean-up and leaving the space usable
  
  

Also ask whether materials are included. Some decorators include paint and sundries, others quote labour only. Neither approach is wrong, but you should know which you’re getting before you compare prices.

How to keep costs sensible without cutting corners

You don’t need a “luxury” budget to get a tidy, professional finish. A good house decorator can work with most budgets and standards, as long as you prioritise and plan the work sensibly.

If you’re trying to reduce spend, consider decorating the busiest areas first, then phasing the rest later. You can also simplify colour choices, reduce feature walls, or focus on walls now and woodwork later if the budget needs breathing room.

Be careful with quotes that look too low. If the price only works by skipping prep or rushing coats, the finish may not last, and you’ll end up repainting sooner than you planned. A quality job often costs less over time because it holds up.

What to expect in Bury, Bolton, and surrounding areas

Local demand and time of year can affect availability. Many decorating businesses are quieter in January, February, and March, which can make it a good time to plan indoor work and get booked in before spring.

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we’re transparent about scheduling. We usually run on a 4–8 week waitlist, because we book work in a way that protects quality and avoids rushing. If you have a deadline, the best move is to reach out early and talk through the scope so you can plan dates and budget with confidence.

If you want a more accurate idea of cost, share your property size, which rooms you want done, whether you need wallpapering, and the condition of the walls and woodwork. A house decorator can then advise on the most sensible approach for your home.

Conclusion

House decorators charge based on time, prep, access, and finishes—not just how many rooms you have. The best way to avoid surprises is to get a clear quote that spells out exactly what’s included. If you’re in Bury, Bolton, or surrounding areas and want a reliable house decorator who can work with most budgets and standards, contact Carlo Picasso Decorators on 0161 960 0104 to discuss your project and availability.