Help deciding on interior paint for 20 unit apartment complex

[Tab Teehee]

I'm getting close to having the first 8 units of my 20 unit rehab ready for paint! I really would like some input from fellow BP'rs on this subject. Here are my thoughts.... Initially I was going satin or eggshell on walls but a former apartment maintenance guy, told me to forget about the need for washable paint! He said go with flat because it hides imperfections better and apartment walls don't get cleaned upon turns, they get painted and touch ups are easier with flat. I'm wanting to go with an off white like antique white, navajo white or something similar...ceilings are flat white and doors and trim semi-gloss white, so I want a bit of contrast for the walls. I was hoping to find pre mixed 5 gallons of something other than basic white, but so far haven't had any luck. Also not sure about brands and how important quality is? anyway I would love to hear from everyone on this! Thanks!

[Tracy Streich]

Tab, 

We manage about 500 units.   We use a satin or a semi gloss on all the walls.   It tends to cover some of the imperfections.   It is also easier to wipe down and we have better luck with the magic eraser with these finishes.   As far as spot touch ups we never do it.   The light fades the paint even after a short period of time.   We "touch up" a wall at a time.  Have found it is it much less work to just roll the entire wall and not worry if the spot touch matches.   Many times we only have to roll one wall in a room.   If the the color is just slightly darker or lighter from the original paint you really do not notice at the break on the corner.  I have moved away from depot and lowes paint because the quality and coverage has not been as good as the Sherwin Williams product.   If you get an account and get contractor prices it is very comparable to the big box stores.  We use the Promar 400 for interior and I have used it for 15 years.   Very durable and usually covers one coat no problem.   We have recently switched to a grey color from the beige we used for years.   Try Agreeable Grey.  Pure White Semi Gloss on all trim.   Same color every unit!