It's all about the right tools AJ.
I have a good airbrush (Iwata HP-BCS) and a new compressor. I use good paint, and quality masking tape and Glad Press N' Seal. The biggest thing is taking your time and letting the colors dry and cure before working the model.
I sprayed the white, let it dry for 48 hours, then put a light coat of Future over the top, let that dry for 48 hours, then applied the black. After that had 48 hours, I Futured the whole mess and readied it for the decals.
That's why I usually have a bunch of projects going. While paint is curing, I'm building something else. It also keeps things interesting.
Jeff