Kindly give readers an introduction to your business. Please include what your business is all about, in which city you are located and if you have offices in multiple locations/ cities.
Excel Painting is a trusted, family-owned business based in the heart of the Las Vegas Valley. Founded in 2009, we specialize in high-quality residential and commercial painting services. Our core offerings include complete exterior and interior painting, cabinet refinishing, epoxy flooring for garages and warehouses, and pool deck coatings — all designed to help our clients improve and protect their properties with confidence.
We proudly serve communities throughout Henderson, Summerlin, Summerlin South, and Enterprise, with a focus on single-family homes. While we do not maintain multiple office locations, we are mobile and bring our services directly to our clients with prompt scheduling, detailed job walks, and an emphasis on customer satisfaction.
Our reputation has been built on trust, pride in our work, and attention to detail — values that continue to set us apart in a competitive industry.
Give us a brief description about yourself.
My name is Mike Montanez, and I’m the owner of Excel Painting. After graduating high school, I attended trade school for a couple of years and entered the construction industry, eventually working my way up to a project manager position at a large cabinet company. When the housing market crashed in 2008, I lost that job — but it turned out to be the beginning of something better.
I started helping a realtor friend with painting and handyman work, and quickly saw an opportunity to build something of my own. In 2009, I officially launched Excel Painting with nothing but determination, a strong work ethic, and a passion for doing quality work.
Since then, I’ve grown Excel Painting into a trusted name in the Las Vegas Valley. We now have over 95 five-star reviews and have been voted Best Residential Painting Company in Las Vegas four years in a row. I take pride in running a business built on craftsmanship, honesty, and strong relationships — and I’m proud of the reputation we’ve earned in the community.
What inspired you to start a new business venture?
I’m Mike Montanez, owner and founder of Excel Painting. After graduating high school, I attended trade school for a couple of years and went on to work in the construction and cabinetry industry. I eventually became a project manager for a large cabinet company, but like many others, I was affected by the 2008 market crash and lost my job. That challenge became a turning point — I started helping a realtor friend with painting and handyman work, and before long, I discovered a real passion for the painting trade. In 2009, Excel Painting was born, and I’ve never looked back.
Over the years, I’ve grown the business through hard work, consistency, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. Today, Excel Painting proudly holds over 95 five-star reviews and has been voted the Best Residential Painting Company in Las Vegas for four consecutive years. I take great pride in running a company built on trust, craftsmanship, and community — and I’m incredibly grateful for the relationships we’ve built with homeowners across the Las Vegas Valley.
How did the idea for your business come about?
The idea for Excel Painting came from a difficult time in my life that turned into a major opportunity. I was working as a project manager for a large cabinet company when the housing market crashed. Like many others, I lost my job and had to figure out my next step. A close friend of mine, who was a realtor, asked if I could help with some painting and handyman work on a few properties he was preparing to sell.
That side work quickly turned into something more — I realized I had a natural eye for detail, enjoyed the work, and saw that there was a real need for reliable, high-quality painting services in the area. With that spark, I decided to build a business around it. In 2009, I officially launched Excel Painting, and what started as a way to get by became a full-time passion and a thriving business.
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
My greatest inspiration has been my family. They’ve always supported me through the ups and downs, especially when I was starting Excel Painting from scratch after losing my job. Their encouragement kept me going during those early days, and their belief in me helped turn a tough situation into a successful business.
I’ve also been inspired by other hardworking tradesmen and small business owners who built something from the ground up. Watching people succeed through grit, pride in their work, and dedication showed me what was possible — and that’s the kind of example I strive to set every day.
What makes you different from other businesses in your industry?
What sets Excel Painting apart is our commitment to quality, trust, and personal service. We’re not a volume-based company that rushes through jobs — we treat every project like it’s our own home. As a family-owned business, we take pride in our craftsmanship and focus on the details that others often overlook.
We also provide personalized service from start to finish. I personally walk most jobs, make sure the scope is clear, and that every customer feels confident about the work we’re doing. Our team is respectful, reliable, and keeps the job site clean and professional at all times.
On top of that, our reputation speaks for itself: over 95 five-star reviews and four-time winners of Best Residential Painting Company in Las Vegas. Those aren’t just awards — they’re a reflection of how much we care about doing right by our clients.
To what do you most attribute your success?
I attribute my success to hard work, consistency, and doing things the right way — even when no one’s watching. From day one, I’ve made it a priority to show up, be dependable, and treat every job with the same level of care, no matter how big or small.
I also believe our success comes from building trust with our clients. We don’t cut corners, we communicate clearly, and we stand behind our work. That’s helped us earn a strong reputation and a loyal customer base.
And most importantly, I have to credit my family and team — their support, commitment, and belief in the vision of Excel Painting have played a huge role in where we are today.
What do you think is the best way to achieve long-term success in business?
Long-term success comes down to doing the right thing, every time — even when it’s not the easiest or fastest option. In this business, your reputation is everything. If you focus on quality, take care of your customers, and follow through on your promises, people will remember that — and they’ll refer you to others.
It’s also important to stay consistent and adaptable. The market changes, customer needs change, and you have to be willing to grow and improve along the way. But the core values — honesty, craftsmanship, and treating people right — never go out of style.
Finally, surround yourself with a solid team that shares your work ethic and values. You can’t build something great alone. The people you hire and the relationships you build in your community will carry your business further than any marketing campaign ever could.
Where do you see yourself and your business in 5 – 10 years?
In the next 5 to 10 years, I see Excel Painting continuing to grow while still holding on to the values that got us here — quality work, strong relationships, and trust. I’d like to expand our reach and take on more high-end residential and commercial projects, while building a larger team that shares the same commitment to craftsmanship and professionalism.
I also see myself stepping more into a leadership and mentorship role — helping guide the next generation of painters and tradespeople who want to build something of their own. At the same time, I want to keep that personal touch with our clients. No matter how much we grow, I don’t ever want to lose that connection or hands-on approach that makes our business stand out.
Ultimately, the goal is to be known as the most trusted and respected painting company in the Las Vegas Valley, and to leave a legacy of quality, integrity, and community impact.
Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?
One business I really admire is Sherwin-Williams. Not just because we use their products regularly, but because of how they’ve built a brand based on consistency, innovation, and support for professionals like myself. They’ve maintained a strong reputation in the industry for decades and continue to evolve with new products, colors, and technology — all while staying grounded in quality and customer service.
I also admire the local small businesses that have grown through word-of-mouth and reputation, not just flashy advertising. Watching other tradesmen and family-run companies succeed by sticking to their values reminds me why I started Excel Painting in the first place.
Who is your target demographic?
Our primary target demographic is homeowners between the ages of 35 and 65, typically living in single-family homes in Henderson, Summerlin, Summerlin South, and Enterprise. Many of our clients are professionals or retirees who value high-quality work, attention to detail, and reliable customer service. They often take great pride in their homes and are looking for a painting company they can trust to deliver a clean, polished, and lasting result.
We also work with property managers and real estate agents who need dependable, timely painting services to maintain or prepare homes for sale or rent. While we focus on residential work, we’re also equipped to take on select commercial projects for clients who value craftsmanship and clear communication.
Please list 3-5 talking points about your business that you feel are most relevant to your target audience.
Award-Winning Service:
Excel Painting has been voted Best Residential Painting Company in Las Vegas for four consecutive years, a reflection of our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Trusted Local Reputation:
With over 95 five-star reviews, our clients know they can count on us for honest communication, detailed work, and dependable results.
Premium Quality Craftsmanship:
We use top-tier products and meticulous prep work to ensure a clean, durable finish — protecting your investment and enhancing curb appeal.
Personalized, Hands-On Approach:
Every project starts with a detailed job walk. I stay involved to make sure your expectations are met and the process is smooth from start to finish.
Experienced in High-End Residential Work:
We specialize in single-family homes in upscale areas like Henderson, Summerlin, and Enterprise — understanding the level of service and detail our clients expect.
What are your overall thoughts on your industry? Any advice you could give people about your industry?
The painting industry is full of opportunity, but it’s also saturated — which makes trust and consistency more important than ever. There are a lot of companies out there offering the same services, but not all of them take the time to do things the right way. That’s why reputation matters. In this business, your word, your work, and your follow-through are everything.
One piece of advice I’d give to anyone looking to hire a painting contractor is: don’t just chase the cheapest price. Look for someone who listens, communicates clearly, and takes pride in their work. The quality of prep, materials, and execution can vary widely — and you’ll always get what you pay for.
For those thinking about getting into the industry: take it seriously. Learn the craft, be dependable, and treat every job like it’s a reflection of your name — because it is. That’s how you build a long-term business in this field.
Is your business involved with any charitable organizations, social causes or non-profit work?
Yes, at Excel Painting we believe in giving back to the community that has supported our growth. Over the years, we’ve participated in local fundraisers, donation drives, and blood donation events to support causes that matter to our team and our neighbors.
While we’re a small, family-run business, we try to make an impact where we can — whether it’s lending our time, services, or resources. Supporting the local community is something we value, and as we grow, we plan to become even more involved in charity partnerships and neighborhood improvement efforts.
How do you give back and support your community?
At Excel Painting, giving back to the community is part of who we are. We’ve taken part in blood drives, local fundraisers, and community events, and we’re always looking for ways to support the people and neighborhoods that have supported us.
Whether it’s offering discounted services for those in need, helping with projects for local organizations, or simply being a dependable small business that residents can count on, we believe that community support goes beyond the job site. We also make it a point to hire local talent, recommend other trusted local businesses, and treat every home we work in with the same respect we would want for our own.
As we continue to grow, our goal is to deepen our involvement and look for more ways to make a positive impact — not just with a paintbrush, but with real, lasting connections.
How important have good employees been to your success?
Good employees have been absolutely essential to the success of Excel Painting. You can have the best tools and materials in the world, but if the people doing the work don’t care or take pride in it, the results will never reflect your standards.
I’ve been fortunate to work with a team that shares my commitment to quality, professionalism, and respect for our clients’ homes. They show up on time, do the job right, and treat every project with the attention it deserves. That kind of reliability builds trust — not just between me and my team, but with every customer we serve.
At the end of the day, a business is only as strong as the people behind it. I don’t take that for granted, and I make sure my team knows they’re valued.
What motivates you?
What motivates me most is building something I’m proud of — not just for myself, but for my family, my team, and the community we serve. I take a lot of pride in turning a tough situation into a successful business, and that fuels me to keep pushing forward.
I’m also motivated by seeing the impact our work has on people’s homes and lives. Whether it’s helping someone improve their home’s value or simply giving them a fresh, clean space to enjoy, knowing we’ve made a difference is what keeps me going.
And finally, I’m driven by the challenge of growing the business the right way — staying true to our values while constantly improving and finding ways to deliver even better service to our clients.
How do you generate new ideas?
Most of my ideas come from being hands-on in the business every day. I’m out on job sites, talking to clients, and seeing firsthand what people need or what could be done better — and that gives me real-time feedback and inspiration.
I also pay close attention to what’s happening in the industry — whether it’s new products, techniques, or customer trends. I stay in contact with suppliers, other tradesmen, and listen to what customers are asking for. Sometimes, just having a simple conversation with a client or team member sparks a new idea or a better way to do things.
And honestly, a lot of ideas come from looking at what could be improved — whether it’s a process we can streamline, a service we can add, or a way to make the customer experience smoother. If you’re always looking for ways to improve, ideas tend to come naturally.
How do you define success?
For me, success isn’t just about profits or growth — it’s about building something with integrity that I can be proud of. Success means having a business that delivers real value to people, earns their trust, and makes a positive impact in the community.
It’s also about consistency and reputation. When customers come back to us or refer their friends and family, that’s success. When my team shows up motivated and proud of their work, that’s success. And when I can look back and know I built this business the right way — through hard work, honesty, and commitment — that’s the kind of success that really matters to me.
At the same time, success also means finding balance. I work hard, but I also make time to enjoy life with my wife and our three dogs. We love to camp and take trips to Utah and Arizona whenever we can. Personal growth is a big part of my life, too — I regularly read motivational and self-help books to become a better person and a stronger leader, both in business and at home.
How do you build a successful customer base?
Building a successful customer base comes down to trust, consistency, and delivering real value. From the very beginning, I’ve focused on doing quality work, showing up when I say I will, and making sure every customer feels respected and taken care of. When people know they can rely on you, they not only return — they refer you to their friends, family, and neighbors.
One thing that really sets us apart is our follow-up process, which is second to none. We fully communicate from the moment a lead comes in, keeping the customer informed through every step — from scheduling and prep to project completion. Even after the job is done, we stay in touch by wishing customers happy holidays and even sending birthday greetings. It’s those personal touches that turn customers into loyal fans.
That kind of relationship-building, combined with over 95 five-star reviews and being voted Best Residential Painting Company in Las Vegas four years in a row, is how we’ve built a customer base that continues to grow through word-of-mouth and repeat business.
What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
My favorite part of being an entrepreneur is the freedom to build something on my own terms — something that reflects my values, work ethic, and commitment to quality. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing something grow from the ground up, especially when you’ve poured your time, energy, and heart into it.
I also love the ability to create opportunities and be a role model. I take pride in helping my employees grow — not just in their trade, but in life and business as well. Whether it’s teaching them new skills, encouraging personal development, or showing them what’s possible through hard work, I want to lead by example and help them reach their full potential.
And of course, I enjoy the challenge. Every day brings something new, and being an entrepreneur constantly pushes me to learn, adapt, and become better. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it — especially when you’re building something that truly matters.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
One of the most satisfying moments in my business was realizing that what started as a way to get by after losing my job had grown into a respected and thriving company. I went from doing small jobs to leading a team, earning repeat clients, and being recognized as one of the best painting companies in Las Vegas — that transformation has been incredibly rewarding.
But beyond the awards and reviews, the most satisfying moments come when a customer sincerely thanks us — when they tell us we exceeded their expectations, or that we made their home feel brand new again. That feedback means the world, because it confirms we’re making a real impact.
I also find a lot of satisfaction in seeing my team grow. Watching employees develop new skills, gain confidence, and move forward in life — that’s a big part of why I do what I do.
What kind of culture exists in your organization? How did you establish this tone and why did you institute this particular type of culture?
At Excel Painting, we’ve built a culture based on respect, accountability, and pride in our work. Everyone on the team knows that we’re not just here to “get the job done” — we’re here to do it the right way, treat every client with professionalism, and take ownership of the results. We hold ourselves to a high standard because our reputation depends on it.
I established this culture by leading by example. From day one, I’ve made it a point to show up on time, communicate clearly, and take responsibility when things don’t go perfectly. That sets the tone. My team sees that I care — about the work, the client, and them — and that naturally creates a sense of pride and unity across the crew.
I chose this kind of culture because I believe in more than just painting homes — I believe in building people up, too. When your team feels supported, respected, and challenged to grow, the work reflects that. And when clients feel that positive energy on the job site, it becomes part of the customer experience.
If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?
If I had the chance to start my career over again, I’d probably believe in myself a little earlier and take the leap into business ownership sooner. Like many people, I played it safe for a while — working for others, building someone else’s dream. It took losing a job for me to finally bet on myself, and looking back, that challenge was the best thing that ever happened to me.
I’d also focus more on business education and leadership development earlier on. I’ve learned a lot through experience — sometimes the hard way — and while that’s made me who I am, having the right systems and guidance from the beginning could’ve helped me scale faster and with less stress.
That said, I don’t have many regrets. Every setback taught me something valuable, and those lessons helped shape the business and the mindset I have today. I’m proud of how far we’ve come — and even more excited for what’s ahead.
What is your greatest fear in business, and how do you manage fear?
My greatest fear in business is letting down the people who count on me — whether it’s a customer who trusted us with their home, an employee providing for their family, or my own family who’s supported me through this journey. That sense of responsibility drives everything I do, and while it can be heavy at times, it also keeps me focused and committed.
Fear is a part of business — especially when you’re the one steering the ship — but I’ve learned to manage it by staying grounded, staying prepared, and focusing on what I can control. I lean on structure, clear communication, and the values that got us here in the first place: honesty, consistency, and quality.
I also manage fear through personal development — I regularly read motivational and self-help books that keep my mindset sharp and help me grow as a leader. Fear doesn’t go away, but when you face it head-on and keep moving forward, it loses its grip.
How did you decide on the location for your business?
I chose to base Excel Painting in the Las Vegas Valley because this is where I live, where I’ve built relationships, and where I saw a real need for high-quality, trustworthy painting services. It made sense to grow a business in the same community I’m a part of — where I know the neighborhoods, understand the types of homes, and can respond quickly to my clients’ needs.
Over time, I narrowed our focus to areas like Henderson, Summerlin, Summerlin South, and Enterprise, because those communities align with the kind of work we do and the clients we serve best — homeowners who care about quality, service, and maintaining their property’s value.
I didn’t need a big storefront or multiple offices — I built the business to be mobile, efficient, and focused on service, so we can meet customers where they are and keep overhead low without compromising quality.
If you could talk to one person from history, who would it be and why?
If I could talk to one person from history, it would probably be Henry Ford. He didn’t just build a business — he revolutionized an entire industry by thinking differently, focusing on efficiency, and making innovation accessible to the everyday person. I’d love to pick his brain about how he handled growth, setbacks, and how he kept pushing forward when others didn’t see the vision.
What stands out to me about someone like Ford isn’t just the success — it’s the mindset. He built systems, empowered his workers, and changed how business was done. As someone who values hard work, leadership, and building something with lasting impact, I think that conversation would be full of lessons I could apply to Excel Painting and beyond.”
What book has inspired you the most (or what is your favorite book)?
One of the books that has inspired me the most is “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins.
What sacrifices have you had to make to be a successful entrepreneur?
Being a successful entrepreneur comes with a lot of rewards, but it also takes real sacrifice. One of the biggest things I’ve given up is time — especially personal time with family, friends, and even just time to relax. In the early years, it was long days, late nights, and weekends on the job to make sure everything was done right and the business stayed on track.
I’ve also sacrificed financial stability in the beginning, taking risks and reinvesting everything back into the business to build a solid foundation. There were moments where I had to put the business first, even when it meant holding off on things personally.
But the biggest sacrifice — and also the biggest reward — has been the mental and emotional load of being the one everyone counts on. Clients, employees, family — you carry that weight every day. But I do it proudly, because I believe in what I’m building.
And in the end, the sacrifices are worth it — because I’ve created something of my own, helped others grow, and built a business my family and community can be proud of.
What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?
Resilience:
Things won’t always go as planned — setbacks, slow seasons, and unexpected challenges are part of the journey. The ability to bounce back, adapt, and keep moving forward is key to long-term success.
Leadership:
You’re not just running a business — you’re leading people. Whether it’s guiding your team, earning customer trust, or making tough decisions, strong leadership is what holds everything together. That includes communication, accountability, and setting the right example every single day.
Work Ethic:
Nothing replaces hard work. You have to be willing to put in the time, do the things others won’t, and stay consistent when motivation runs out. Success comes from showing up — day after day — and doing the job with pride.
What three pieces of advice would you give to entrepreneurs looking to get started in your industry?
Master the Craft Before You Scale:
Take the time to learn the trade the right way. Prep work, materials, and attention to detail matter just as much as the final coat. Your reputation is built on the quality of your work — and in this industry, word-of-mouth is everything.
Don’t Chase Quick Money — Build Long-Term Trust:
It can be tempting to underbid jobs or rush projects just to get paid, but that approach doesn’t last. Focus on doing great work, being honest with clients, and delivering what you promise. A solid reputation will bring you more business than any ad ever could.
Stay Organized and Communicate Clearly:
From estimates to scheduling to final walkthroughs, communication is key. Keep your process organized and make sure your customers always know what to expect. It builds confidence, reduces stress, and sets you apart from fly-by-night contractors.
Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
I don’t think there’s one exact formula, but I do believe there’s a pattern of habits and mindsets that successful entrepreneurs tend to follow. It starts with discipline — showing up every day, doing the work, and staying consistent even when things are tough or progress feels slow.
Next, you need a strong sense of accountability — to your customers, your team, and yourself. Own your mistakes, learn from them, and always look for ways to improve.
And finally, you need vision and grit. You have to see the bigger picture even when the day-to-day gets messy, and you need the determination to keep pushing forward when things get uncomfortable.
So no, there’s no magic formula — but if you combine hard work, integrity, and a willingness to grow, you’ll be on the right track every time.
What do you feel is the major difference between entrepreneurs and those who work for someone else?
The biggest difference comes down to responsibility and mindset. As an entrepreneur, everything falls on you — the success, the failure, the customer experience, the finances, the growth. There’s no clocking out at 5 p.m. or waiting for direction from someone else. You have to be self-driven, solution-oriented, and willing to take risks most people avoid.
Employees, on the other hand, usually focus on doing their specific role well, within a structure that someone else built. There’s less risk, but also less control. As an entrepreneur, you’re not just doing the work — you’re building the entire foundation, and constantly thinking about the bigger picture.
That said, both roles are important. Not everyone wants the weight of ownership, and that’s okay. But if you’re going to be an entrepreneur, you have to be comfortable betting on yourself — and willing to put in the work long before the rewards show up.
For more information, visit us at https://www.excelpaintinglv.com/.
