Don’t Be Fooled by Fake Ratings: Our tips to Finding Genuine 5-Star Service

It’s easy to be impressed by online ratings, but these days fake reviews are everywhere. How can you tell if the good feedback is real? Here are four of our tips to help you find the “best painter near me”.

Look for Handwritten Reviews

Authenticity matters. Real customer testimonials—especially handwritten notes or scanned feedback forms—offer a genuine glimpse into a painter’s work. At DHPainting, for example, we proudly showcase handwritten reviews on our website. These tangible reviews are nearly impossible to fake and far more trustworthy than generic online comments, giving you greater confidence in the service.

Scrutinize Google Reviews

A 5.0 rating on Google might sound perfect, but don’t be fooled. With the rise of AI-generated and bought reviews, it’s essential to look beyond the stars. Genuine reviews often include specific details about the project, while fake ones tend to be vague and overly positive. Be on the lookout for generic language or repetitive phrases.

Check for Additional Trust Signals

Reviews are just one part of the picture. A reputable painter backs up their ratings with visual proof of quality work. At DHPainting, we give potential clients a behind-the-scenes look at our work on our Instagram. With plenty of before-and-after shots and progress photos, you can see the hard work, precision, and professionalism that go into quality results.

Ask Locally and Trust Community Reputation

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Ask your neighbors, friends, or local online community groups like Nextdoor for their recommendations. A painter with a solid local reputation will have a strong referral network and recognizable work in your area.

While online reviews and search rankings can be a helpful starting point, they shouldn’t be your only deciding factor. Look for authentic, detailed feedback—especially handwritten reviews—and verify additional trust signals like project photos and local reputation. By doing your homework, you can confidently decide if the “best painter near me” truly lives up to the hype, ensuring you choose a professional who will deliver exceptional results for your home.