What is the best and cheapest way to advertise my residential painting business?

front page newspapper ******

Write a good descriptive advert and place it free on gumtree. You can also set up free Google Places. Print some leaflets and deliver them through letter boxes, especially properties that have just been sold. Network with estate and letting agents.

izigg.com

Get a nice sign written large and clear... on your van and outside every property you work in. Encourage your customers to have a house party when the work is done and maybe invite you back to meet their neighbors.... buy them a nice gift...to a valued client! Take before and after pictures for your website and Portfolio, get a thank you letter or positive feedback form filled in (did we keep to agreed time, budget, respect your home, deal with any snagging issues, meet your expectations and would you recommend our service to a friend). Personal recommendation is the best... and frankly cheapest form of promotion but you have to put the effort into your customer satisfaction and never miss an opportunity. Helping out with community projects can be great PR and use your guys in quiet times. Good luck.