Just did the 242Ti and to do it right was a BIG job all together. All trim, glass, handles and logos off, sanding to remove all edges and the $200 in paint and $300 supplies. 3-stage DuPont paint. Removing and replacing the glass and trim is not that bad or difficult and replacing it is a chance to set a new windshield and so forth. It came out pretty good, since I had an experienced accomplish who volunteered his time, and we had access to a paint booth and oven at a local dealership. You could do the cord under the trim and mask method but nothing can beat the remove and paint results. We were very careful and still, there are a few flaws, a few drips and so forth. Overall, it looks like a $2000 paint job, there is absolutely no rust and dings are almost gone, the glass seal surfaces are all protected, the metallic white gleams. Now, I need the clear coat buffed.
Definitely, try to buy a car that has had a nice paint job done by the PO. I now have a lot of respect for auto guys who do body and paint, it is really hard work.