Brandon Geist of Triangle Pro Painting at a job site with a freshly painted house, symbolizing growth from a $500 start to $335,000 monthly profits in Raleigh, NC.

Introduction: The Lucrative World of House Painting

What if a summer job painting houses could turn into a $335,000-a-month business? That’s the reality for Brandon Geist, the founder of Triangle Pro Painting, a Raleigh, North Carolina-based company that’s redefining success in the house painting industry. Starting with just a few brushes and a dream, Brandon has scaled his business to a projected $4 million in revenue for 2024—averaging $335,000 monthly. How did he do it? One pivotal decision, a forgotten advertising method, and a customer-first mindset.

In this blog post, we’ll explore Brandon’s journey from a painter’s assistant to a multi-million-dollar entrepreneur, dive into the house painting industry’s evolution, and uncover the strategies that propelled Triangle Pro Painting to success. Whether you’re an aspiring business owner or a homeowner curious about the painting world, this story will inspire you to see the potential in every brushstroke.

The House Painting Industry: A Historical Perspective

Before Brandon’s rise, the house painting industry was a fragmented landscape. Painting has long been a staple of home improvement, dating back to the early 20th century when lead-based paints dominated the market. By the 1970s, environmental regulations banned lead paint, spurring innovation in safer, water-based alternatives. The industry grew steadily, driven by rising homeownership and a boom in real estate. However, it remained largely unorganized, with small, local contractors dominating the market.

The 2010s brought a shift. Home renovation shows and social media platforms like Pinterest fueled demand for aesthetic upgrades, including bold exterior repaints and trendy cabinet painting. Yet, the industry faced challenges: inconsistent quality, unreliable contractors, and a lack of professionalism left homeowners wary. Customers craved transparency, reliability, and high-quality service—gaps that Brandon would later fill with Triangle Pro Painting.

Before 2018, when Brandon launched his business, the painting industry in North Carolina was a mix of solo painters and small crews, often operating without formal systems. Information on scaling a painting business was scarce, and many struggled to break the $100,000 revenue mark. Brandon’s entry into the market, armed with a fresh perspective and a willingness to invest in systems, would change the game.

Brandon’s Journey: From a Summer Job to a Painting Empire

Brandon Geist’s story begins in his teens. Fresh out of high school, he landed a summer job as a painter’s assistant after spotting an ad in the local newspaper. “I wanted to start making some money,” he recalls. That gig sparked a passion for painting, leading him to work for his father’s small construction company in 2017, handling their painting projects. In 2018, encouraged by his wife’s belief in him, Brandon took the leap and founded Triangle Pro Painting.

Starting with less than $1,500—covering brushes, drop cloths, and a basic sprayer—Brandon’s first year brought in just under $100,000. Growth was slow initially: $130,000 in year two and $338,000 in year three. But a pivotal decision in year four changed everything. By investing in coaching, systems, and standard operating procedures (SOPs), Brandon skyrocketed his revenue to $1.1 million. The momentum continued: $2.1 million in 2022, $3 million in 2023, and a projected $4 million in 2024. That’s an average of $335,000 per month—a staggering leap from his humble beginnings.

The Business Model: Low Startup Costs, High Returns

The painting industry’s appeal lies in its accessibility. “You could get started for probably less than $1,500,” Brandon notes, citing the bare essentials: brushes, drop cloths, and a sprayer. Triangle Pro Painting focuses on interior and exterior repaints, cabinet painting, and light commercial work, with a heavy emphasis on residential projects. A typical project, like a full exterior repaint with a guest house, costs just under $20,000 and takes a week and a half with a team of five.

Brandon’s margins are impressive: a gross profit of 50% or better and a net profit of 24%, translating to nearly $1 million on $4 million in revenue. His lean operation—three sales reps, an office manager, two production managers, and 14 subcontractor teams—keeps overhead low. Monthly expenses include $1,200 for office rent, a few hundred for utilities, and $10,000-$15,000 on marketing, totaling around $20,000. By using subcontractors instead of employees, Brandon ensures productivity while maintaining high standards through rigorous onboarding and SOPs.

Innovation and Challenges: The Power of Systems

Brandon’s success hinges on one decision: investing in coaching and systems. “That was the best decision I ever made,” he says, crediting it for his jump past $1 million. His SOPs for customer service—listen, validate, provide solutions, and follow through—ensure a perfect five-star rating across 260 reviews. “The biggest problem is people don’t feel heard,” he explains, emphasizing the importance of listening and validating customer concerns.

Challenges weren’t absent. A new construction automotive center project tested his team when other trades caused touch-up issues. Brandon handled it with integrity, fulfilling the contract while setting clear boundaries. The lesson? “Stay in your lane,” he advises, focusing on residential work where his team excels. This focus, paired with a repeatable sales process, has led to 45-55 jobs closed monthly.

Marketing Genius: The Forgotten Method

Brandon’s marketing strategy is a masterclass in data-driven decisions. Spending $10,000-$15,000 monthly, he targets multiple channels: Google ads, Facebook ads, Yelp, and networking groups. But the standout is direct mail—a “forgotten” method yielding a 10X return. Spending $13,000 on direct mail in 2023, Triangle Pro Painting earned $138,000. “We look at all our sources as data points,” Brandon says, increasing spend on what works.

SEO is another pillar, targeting keywords like “exterior painting Raleigh NC” and “interior painter near me.” Networking with top real estate agents and leveraging referrals further boosts leads. This multi-pronged approach ensures a steady stream of clients without relying on a single channel.

Customer Service: The Five-Star Secret

Triangle Pro Painting’s 260 five-star reviews are no accident. Brandon’s four-step SOP ensures customer satisfaction: listen deeply, validate concerns, provide solutions (going above and beyond), and follow through. “When people feel heard, they lower their guard,” he notes. This process, combined with on-site estimate presentations and clear communication between sales and production teams, builds trust and loyalty.

The Future of House Painting: Brandon’s Legacy

Brandon’s journey offers a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs. Start small—check state licensing, form an LLC, and secure liability insurance. Invest in systems and coaching early to avoid pitfalls. Focus on what you’re good at, whether residential or commercial, and build strong supplier relationships for better pricing. His mindset shift—“see what else you’re capable of”—drives his success, a lesson for anyone transitioning from a 9-to-5.

Today, Brandon is scaling thoughtfully, prioritizing residential work while taking on light commercial projects. His team-building efforts, like hockey game outings, foster a positive culture. With a projected $4 million in 2024, he’s proof that a painting side gig can become a multi-million-dollar empire.

Conclusion: Why House Painting Matters

Brandon Geist’s story with Triangle Pro Painting shows how a low-barrier industry can yield massive rewards. Before his rise, house painting was a scattered trade lacking professionalism. Now, it’s a beacon of opportunity, thanks to innovators like him. Whether you’re inspired to start your own business or hire a painter, Brandon’s journey proves that with the right mindset and systems, you can paint a brighter future.

What is the house painting industry?
The house painting industry involves professional painting services for residential and commercial properties, focusing on interior, exterior, and specialty finishes.
How has the house painting industry evolved over time?
It shifted from lead-based paints in the early 20th century to safer alternatives, with modern growth driven by home renovation trends and demand for quality service.
Why is house painting a low-barrier industry?
Startup costs are minimal—under $1,500 for basic tools—making it accessible for entrepreneurs with limited capital.
What challenges does the house painting industry face?
Inconsistent quality, unreliable contractors, and customer distrust are common, alongside seasonal demand fluctuations.
How does house painting impact local economies?
It creates jobs, supports suppliers like paint stores, and boosts property values through aesthetic improvements.
What role does customer service play in house painting?
Exceptional service builds trust, ensures repeat business, and drives referrals, as seen with Brandon’s five-star reviews.
How does technology influence the house painting industry?
Digital marketing, SEO, and project management software streamline operations and client acquisition.
What societal trends have boosted demand for house painting?
Home renovation shows, social media aesthetics, and a focus on curb appeal have increased demand for professional painting.
How does house painting contribute to sustainability?
Using eco-friendly paints and proper waste disposal reduces environmental impact, aligning with green building trends.
What are the profit margins in house painting?
Gross margins can reach 50%, with net profits around 20-24%, depending on scale and efficiency.
How does seasonality affect house painting businesses?
Exterior projects peak in warmer months, while interior work sustains revenue year-round.
What regulations govern house painting businesses?
State licensing, liability insurance, and workers’ comp are required to ensure safety and compliance.
How does house painting compare to other home improvement trades?
It’s less capital-intensive than plumbing or electrical work but requires strong customer service to stand out.
What skills are essential for success in house painting?
Painting expertise, communication, and business acumen are key to delivering quality and scaling operations.
How do house painting businesses attract clients?
Digital marketing, direct mail, referrals, and networking with real estate agents are effective strategies.
What impact does house painting have on property value?
A fresh paint job can increase curb appeal and home value by 2-5%, according to real estate studies.
How does the house painting industry adapt to economic downturns?
Focusing on budget-friendly services like repaints and targeting essential maintenance projects helps sustain business.
What are the risks of poor-quality painting services?
Peeling paint, uneven finishes, and customer dissatisfaction can damage reputation and lead to costly reworks.
How does house painting support community aesthetics?
It enhances neighborhood appeal, encouraging pride in homeownership and community standards.
Why is house painting appealing to entrepreneurs?
Low startup costs, high margins, and steady demand make it a viable business with growth potential.
How does gender play a role in the house painting industry?
It’s a gender-neutral field, valuing skill and professionalism over traditional stereotypes.
What cultural significance does house painting hold?
It reflects personal style and cultural trends, like bold colors or minimalist designs, in home aesthetics.
How do painting businesses manage client expectations?
Clear communication, detailed contracts, and SOPs ensure alignment and satisfaction.
What are the benefits of subcontracting in house painting?
It increases productivity and flexibility, as Brandon found, but requires strong oversight.
How does house painting adapt to regional climates?
In humid areas like Raleigh, painters use moisture-resistant paints and schedule around weather patterns.
Who founded Triangle Pro Painting?
Brandon Geist started the company in 2018, inspired by his wife’s encouragement.
What services does Triangle Pro Painting offer?
They specialize in interior and exterior repaints, cabinet painting, and light commercial work.
How much does Triangle Pro Painting earn monthly?
In 2024, they’re on track for $4 million annually, averaging $335,000 per month.
What’s Triangle Pro Painting’s startup cost?
Brandon started with less than $1,500 for basic tools like brushes and a sprayer.
How does Triangle Pro Painting ensure five-star reviews?
Their four-step SOP—listen, validate, provide solutions, follow through—ensures customer satisfaction.
What marketing method works best for Triangle Pro Painting?
Direct mail, yielding a 10X return, with $13,000 spent earning $138,000 in 2023.
How many employees does Triangle Pro Painting have?
They have three sales reps, an office manager, two production managers, and 14 subcontractor teams.
What’s Triangle Pro Painting’s monthly overhead?
Around $20,000, including $1,200 for rent, utilities, and $10,000-$15,000 on marketing.
How does Triangle Pro Painting use subcontractors?
Subcontractors handle on-site work, providing their own equipment while Triangle Pro supplies paint.
What’s Triangle Pro Painting’s net profit margin?
They achieve a 24% net profit, earning nearly $1 million on $4 million in revenue.
How does Triangle Pro Painting target SEO?
They focus on keywords like “exterior painting Raleigh NC” and “interior painter near me.”
What’s Triangle Pro Painting’s most challenging project?
A new construction automotive center required touch-ups due to other trades, teaching them to stay in their lane.
How does Triangle Pro Painting motivate its team?
Bonuses for five-star reviews, commissions for sales reps, and team outings like hockey games boost morale.
What’s Triangle Pro Painting’s sales process?
It includes an initial call, Q&A discovery, on-site walkaround, and presenting estimates immediately.
How does Triangle Pro Painting build supplier relationships?
They negotiate discounts based on volume and maintain loyalty, earning perks like event tickets.
What’s Triangle Pro Painting’s approach to commercial work?
They focus on residential but take light commercial jobs, planning to scale into larger projects later.