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When choosing paint for stucco, it's recommended to use a high-quality exterior paint specifically formulated for masonry or stucco surfaces. Look for paints labeled as "masonry paint," "stucco paint," or "concrete paint." These paints are designed to adhere well to stucco surfaces and provide durability and weather resistance. 

Opt for paints with good breathability to allow moisture to escape and prevent potential issues with trapped moisture. You may also want to consider paints with UV resistance to protect the stucco from fading or discoloration due to sun exposure.

The biggest issue with painting your interior walls with exterior paint isn’t the way the paint looks or performs—it’s the lack of ventilation. The higher quantities of VOCs in exterior paint will have a harder time dispersing in an enclosed space, so do everything you can to direct them out—like turning on a fan and opening your windows and doors. Afterward, you can simply prime and redo your walls with interior paint, and no one will know the difference.

In all cases, it’s more affordable to DIY paint than hire a professional painter, as you’ll save on labor costs, which makes up the large majority of your total when you hire a pro. However, you get what you pay for. Professionals have the equipment and years of experience to tackle a job much more efficiently than most homeowners, and they typically provide better results. It’s often worth the expense to save time and secure a more professional appearance for your paint job.

Painting over polyurethane without sanding is not advisable. Sanding, followed by priming, is pivotal in ensuring proper adhesion of the new paint. Sanding creates a rough surface that allows the primer to adhere firmly, which helps paint cure correctly, providing a long-lasting and smooth finish. Neglecting thorough sanding, followed by a paint primer, could lead to the paint not adhering effectively, causing peeling or uneven application.