No offense Mike, cause I think you’re a stand up dude but you really do have sucker painted across your face.
STOP PAYING FOR THINGS UP FRONT!!
with painters you give them a check for 25% up front 25% once primed 25% once painted and 25% once wet sanded and buffed. Hell i have never been to a painter that i didnt pay once the job was completed. Friend or new acquaintance.
Never giving anyone more than $200 for anything unless you have it documented or on a credit card you can dispute the transaction with. I honestly don’t care if you were even dealing with me I would want you to take the same steps.
as for the douche and the impreza, give him the starter thats worth about $200