I realize you said you don't have a lot of time for wallpaper removal, but that's what I would do. Contrary to those who report it being such a nightmare, I find it merely time consuming but not difficult. I haven't used scaffolding--I've just moved a chair or step-stool around.

I would not pay someone $1550 to do it. I don't know if that is a time-and-materials cost or a we-don't-want-to-do-it-so-we'll-discourage-you-with-a-high-price cost.

You might try to find out if the walls were properly prepared ("sized") before they were papered. If not, it will be almost impossible to strip the paper off without damaging the walls. Second, you might want to paint over the wallpaper in a small inconspicuous location to find out whether the paint will adhere properly and cover the wallpaper design. After you have answered these questions, you will be in a better position to make an informed decision on how to proceed.

Remove it, period... If it is plaster walls it should come off pretty easy. here is a link for the steps.

Here is a link that might be useful: removal

I agree....stripping wallpaper from plaster is a whole different animal than if it were on drywall. Plaster is like rock, really hard to damage. The entire reason everyone thinks that removing wallpaper is such a nightmare is because we started hanging it on top of drywall as if it were plaster. Don't forget that even though the wallpaper may seem stuck to you and your professional painter, adding the weight of mud and paint may help it come loose and/or bubble everywhere over time. Painting over wallpaper should really only be done as a last resort.

Painting over wallpaper should really only be done as a last resort.

Exactly