FP screen , +$$$ = better pic - fact or fiction?


About to venture into my first front projection system. Most likely will be Sony VPL-VW60 (1080P). Will use approx. 100" fixed mount screen - in a basement room where controlling light is not an issue. Will use for movies and sporting events. Viewing distance is 14-18'.

Is there really a significant picture quality difference when going from paint-on screen, to $1,000. screen to $3,000.+ screen? With the cost of the Sony unit, WAF budget dictates a sub-$1,200 screen. Will that be a mistake? Open to suggestions/recommendations ...
northwoods_maine
In general companies suggest 15-30% of Projector cost for screen budget, I am veiwing mine on plain old flat white wall till I get my screen mi=unted and it looks darn good.
I can share my impression of the screen by Sunday when it is installed......but its way budget....84in wide format for less then $200, but I am poor so its what I could afford.
Bdgregory - I think you missed the comma between the paint on and the $1,000 price point screen.

I'll try this question phrased a different way. Is there a clearly visable difference between these three:

1. paint on screen on flat, smooth drywall
2. A fixed mount screen in the "up to $1,200" price range
3. Top rated "Stewart" or other premium brand fixed mount in the $2-3,000. range.

I can afford to buy a Stewart but as with most things in the audio/video hobby, spending more money doesn't necessarily give you an audible or visable difference. Also, I have found that at 56 years old, I reach the point of diminshing returns quicker than I used to with 56 year old eyes and ears!

Can anyone (from personnal experience) recommend a sub-$1,200 fixed screen that I would never feel like I'd want to upgrade from (or do I hold out a couple more months and spend more). Thanks in advance for your help.
Northwoods . . . indeed I did miss the comma. Sorry about that, I need to take more care in reading.

I have no personal experience with screens anywhere near $1200, and I suspect my standards are a bit more lax than many, since I'm still satisfied with 720p. What I can tell you about my cheapo DIY screen is that the quality is comparable to my Samsung 60" DLP (also 720p) tv that I have upstairs. The exception being that I need to lower the room lights for my front projector. I've had guests express amazement by the picture quality on my 10' screen.
Here's the material I used. It looks like they raised the price since I bought 2 years ago.

I hope that helps.
I did a bunch of research lately and over at avsforums they recommend the carada screens for high bang for the buck appeal. Should be well under $1000.; That's what i'll buy when i get one next year.