I can only tell you as a builder that I never do it other than priming.

Part of the problem is simple damage to the walls from moving around doors, lengths of trim etc. As well, there are sometimes adjustments to the drywall in fitting the trim that require drywall repair.

Of course, since you are the painter and the trim carpenter, you're in a position to better coordinate those trades and call them back for repairs. :-)

My builder had me finish all painting first. But his reasoning was due to the amount of hardwood. He wanted all the moisture from the paint out of the house. We will begin flooring next then the trim

I always painted first, then installed trim.

When we finished our basement, I painted all the walls first, then painted the trim on workbenches before install. So much easier! No taping. Only had to cut in around the ceiling. We just filled nail holes and touched up here and there and it was done.

I just spent today painting my daughter's room. Going from lavender to lime green. Took longer to tape than it did to paint!! The entire time I was thinking how much easier it would be if I didn't have to trim out around doors windows and baseboards.

I painted my whole house prior to trimming and am very glad I did! I was so easy. I also painted all the trim while it was laying out on saw horses. It's easier to paint trim while it is horizontal so you don't have to deal with runs. Once I put the trim up, it's very simple and quick to touch up nail holes.

Ryan Colwell, you do realize this is a 9 year old post you resurrected for no real reason.

I'm getting ready to paint, and got some great tips from Ryan Colwell. I often go back to advice boards to get advice--even if they're older. :) The original poster didn't benefit, but anyone who finds this board still can.

I'm revivified!