Should You Take the Lowest Contractor Bid for a Remodel?

Home renovation, old bathtub and tiles demolishing in bathroomHow do you know when to spend a lot of money on a home project versus when it is all right to go a cheaper route? When taking bids for a renovation project, it can be tempting to take the lowest offer,but if the highest bid comes in at $75,000 and the lowest is $30,000, there could be a reason the low bid is so low.

If you’re considering a remodel, take a look at NAR’s Remodeling Impact Report to see what the average cost of a particular project is and compare those costs to their bids. Sometimes taking the higher bid saves more money in the long run.

Bottom Line

Check out HouseLogic’s collection of articles on ‘nickel and diming’ homes. Speak with some homeowners in your area who have completed renovation projects and if or where they regret trying to save money. Ask a REALTOR® about renovation projects that have caused problems at resale and how those could have been avoided.  Give me a call to answer any further questions – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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9333 E Happy Valley Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$12,000,000
11 Beds
12 Baths
20,211 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6611332
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled behind towering privacy gates, this Mediterranean-inspired estate unveils itself as a haven of luxury, privacy, and unparalleled grandeur. Crafted by a visionary owner, this residence transcends the ordinary, offering an array of luxurious amenities and quality finishes that rival the most exclusive 5-star resorts. With sweeping views of the iconic Pinnacle Peak to the north and the glittering city lights and majestic Camelback Mountain to the south, this property is a true masterpiece. Whether you're a car collector, equestrian enthusiast, toy aficionado, or a consummate entertainer, this estate caters to your every passion. Garages that house prized collections, entertainment spaces that dazzle, outdoor oasis that is an immersive experience designed to delight the senses. More than just a garden, this lush landscape represents an investment in timeless beauty. The deliberate choices made by the owner have resulted in a sanctuary that transcends the ordinary.

10835 E Mountain Spring Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$12,000,000
5 Beds
8 Baths
12,289 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6677333
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Extraordinary estate nestled in Silverleaf's Upper Canyon McDowell Mountain preserve with a majestic mountain backdrop, dramatic down valley city views, and golf course proximity, this home is exquisitely picturesque. Built by Catalina Custom Homes with design inspired by traditional Spanish architecture, this storybook is a living legacy of grace and character. An architectural masterpiece, featuring 5 bedrooms, 8 baths, two offices, and game room with ten patios/outdoor living areas, meticulously planned for functional living with large spaces for optimal elite entertaining and vignette boutique spaces that add interest and charm. Finished with the finest custom details for the most discerning resident. Timeless sophistication with grand ceilings boast extensive (see ''more'' now) custom millwork, intricate detailed coffered ceilings, moldings/trim, and hand picked reclaimed beams. Details are abound including architectural mason designed custom stonework, complimenting hand painted accent tiled walls, European hickory wide plank and stone flooring, alder wood doors and roll-out windows, and convenient dumbwaiter. At the heart of the home is an oversized great room with double island kitchen, separate prep pantry, informal dining and limitless living space with two fireplaces. Owner's retreat offers spacious bedroom, living area and additional adjoining flex room. Attached guest residence has private entry and access to main home, features oversized living area with fireplace, kitchenette and abundant bedroom and bath. Spacious outdoor living areas, downstairs off great room and an upstairs off game room, enhance seamless living and maximize the panoramic views from every angle. Manicured English style garden is the heart of the back yard, surrounded by covered living spaces and rectilinear vignettes that create charming spaces for outdoor living. Privately entertain with large pool and spa with generous grass area, outdoor kitchen and oversized fire pit that overlooks spectacular down valley views. Refined luxury living at its best.

6200 E Quartz Mountain Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,999,888
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,805 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6674881
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Award winning - Builder, TeMac, & Architect, Candelaria Design - team for an epic Mountainside Retreat. This stately, single-level estate, offers all of the modern day amenities, & the peaceful getaway you need & deserve, with miles of view corridors over the Sonoran desert; all the while only minutes from world-class: shopping, entertainment & fine dining. The estate, perched on Mummy Mountain, on over an acre of flat land, boasts its own wellness center for relaxation, zen garden atrium, a spacious primary wing with two huge closets, spa like bathroom, sitting area, and massive doors and windows for scenic enjoyment. The indoor outdoor living is abundant with a true resort infinity edge pool, massive kitchen, game room, gym, 3 additional en-suites, an office, and 4 garages.

42515 N 102nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$11,995,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,323 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6671527
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf Membership included -First time on the market, completed in 2020. Sited in Desert Mountain's prestigious Saguaro Forest Canyon, this single-level soft contemporary masterpiece stands testament to thoughtful design philosophy and strategic placement. It redefines modern living to today's aesthetics. Designed by the renowned Architect Shelby Wilson, expertly built by Manship Homes, interior by Elizabeth Rosensteel and Landscape by David Creech of CF Design - every aspect of this home exudes sophistication, casual elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship. As you approach, the subtle grandeur of the 2.49 acre property is immediately evident by the exterior design: sublime earth colors, bouldering landscape design with curved zinc address signage, dark charcoal pavers and path, stucco, stack stone accents and walls, double row zinc metal facia and large picture windows with metal beamed headers. The strategic placement of the elevated home offers views that stretch unbroken from above the Chiricahua Clubhouse to the eastern sunrise to the northwestern horizon, in between capturing the beauty of colorful mountains, sprawling golf courses, city lights and breathtaking desert landscapes. It's a visual symphony that evolves with the shifting light of day, culminating in mesmerizing sunsets and twinkling city lights. Step under the curved zinc facia entrance beyond the impressive 4 front door with linear metal inserts and matching side walls and you're greeted by an oasis of tranquility. The interior courtyard, encased in telescoping glass doors, draws the eye through the heart of the home to the outdoor space where the circular pool with two beach entries transforms into a semi Olympic, negative edge lap pool with twin deep end swim out seats seamlessly merging with the unlimited sunny skies. It's a moment of pure awe-inspiring beauty. The soft contemporary design embraces a sophisticated high-end minimalistic approach with balanced symmetry and dimensional variations of right angles, circles, rectangles and squares - defined by single-level livability, whole house heated floors, continuous style interior/exterior porcelain tile, 6 base tile with 5/8 reveals and modern interior pocketed doors. The spacious picture windows, multitude of skylights and open sky central courtyard turn the captivating desert landscape into a living work of art. Inside, the functionality and serenity of the single-level, great room, split floor plan become apparent. Guest ensuites or offices, positioned towards the hillside, seamlessly merge with the living areas that open to the vast outdoors. The central courtyard, with its circular stone layout invites natural light and is complemented by pipe art, evergreen shrubs, river rock and a soothing boulder water feature. Great room living beckons with the cherry planked 14' ceilings, five metal beams and a 6' X 10' skylight that highlights the 6' X 10' cactus and river rock floor inset below. The eight 14' X 5' stacking and pocketing glass wall system erases the distinction of inside and outside. The linear fireplace with stone bamboo wall and rectangular peninsula chimney further elevates the ambiance. The kitchen, a showpiece of streamlined design, boasts a 12' X 4.5' island with backlit resin front and bar seating, cherry cabinets, quartz counters, high-end Wolf, Bosch, and Sub Zero appliances and a spacious walk-in pantry with counter space. A dropped, framed and illuminated ceiling canopy detail adds softness and interest. The three stacking glass doors open to outdoor grilling, peaceful Alfresco dining with inlaid flush mount ceiling heaters and spacious artificial turf areas to enjoy by the pool. Adjacent to the kitchen, culinary delights are enjoyed in the circular dining space with booth seating, round glass table, built in backlit resin servers and recessed ceiling detail with cove lighting. Balancing the living spaces, the bar located on the west side of the great room ensures relaxation and intimate conversation with counter seating, mounted TV, backlit resin cabinet and temperature controlled wine room with back display access. The matching three-paned glass doors and dropped, framed and illuminated ceiling canopy detail mirrors the kitchen, balancing the design. The primary ensuite, a haven of refinement, offers dropped subtle lit cove ceiling detail, a cherry wood wall with metal inserts, and a floor to ceiling bamboo stone linear fireplace. The luxury bath features double floating vanities, a two-sided shower and an open designer closet with abundant storage. The office or second ensuite provides symmetrical workspaces with coffered ceiling detail, while two additional guest ensuites showcase thoughtful style and privacy with picture windows, lighted cove ceilings, floating vanities, floor level walk-in showers, full closets and banks of drawers. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the residence boasts a comprehensive laundry room with plenty of storage cabinets and counter space, and three garage spaces designed to accommodate the needs of car enthusiasts. The first class resort style outdoor space with inground speakers, provides full time indoor/outdoor living. Spacious covered patios entice conversation or quiet times. The pool calls for sunning or swimming laps in sheer luxury. Star gaze from the built-in linear firepit with two-sided seating and inlaid flush mount ceiling heaters. This living sanctuary is flawlessly designed for today's illuminated lifestyle, complemented by the proximity to the Chiricahua Clubhouse, Constantino and Angelos restaurants. Beyond the confines of the home, Desert Mountain beckons with its unparalleled amenities, including seven golf courses, seven clubhouses and twenty miles of private hiking trails. In summary, this Desert Mountain masterpiece represents the pinnacle of contemporary living, where every detail has been carefully curated to create an environment that is as functional as it is beautiful - a true testament to the art of modern living in the heart of the desert. This home is being sold with a golf membership and all furniture and art with minimal exclusions.

6132 N 51st Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,995,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
6,617 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6680348
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location and architectural design rarely combine to result in an offering as rare as 51st Place, a 2024 ground up new build, breathtaking views of iconic Camelback Mountain seen throughout property, the interiors will astonish from the hand-selected lighting, concrete fluted fireplaces, millwork, wall treatments is nothing but the best. Chefs kichen with dual islands, loaded with appliances throughout home, recharge in the resort inspired primary suite with a glass wall to patio, large dual walk in closets both triple hung and her closet with a waterfall island, steam shower. 16' ceilings in family room which continue through to the covered patio framing Camelback mountain and a glass tiled negative edge heated pool with built in bar stools, the pool incorporates two sunshelfs, the architecturaly appointed steel beams cantilever at patios complimenting the home, escape to the private guest house in the rear of property consisting of a full kitchen, the estate home is gated and walled in for privacy, glass garage doors, 4 car oversized garage has been air conditioned and capable of staking cars with built in cabinets and work bench, 1158 bottle climate controlled wine wall with natural walnut accents the front entry, a large butlers kitchen with coffee bar, entertain at its best in the impressive game room which consists of a sunken theater room and a large built in bar, a large interior courtyard with fireplace is located off the main living area and you'll find large oversized glass doors and windows throughout, 90 degree pocket doors as you enter the home to show off the impressive backyard with artifical turf and a putting green, a view deck to catch the sunset views and enjoy the built in bbq/bar area and the 9' long steel firepit all on view deck, the view deck is accessed by a steel and glass staircase which is a true work of art, main patio consists of a second built in bbq/bar area easily accessible to kitchen, a firepit poolside, no expense was overlooked on this home, grounds are landscaped at its best, come see what 24 years of striving for perfection has created by J.M. Wall Development, nothing of its kind and quality on the market, a true luxury home at its best!

8020 N 64th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,988,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,860 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6691272
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning new construction by Patterson Homes set to be completed in Q2 24'. Spanning nearly 7,900sf this exquisite property includes a 619sf casita & a spacious pool cabana complete with an oversized TV wall & outdoor kitchen. The design offers expansive covered patios with breathtaking mountain views & a luxurious resort-style pool. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features a true split layout with a lavish primary suite that includes a grand bathroom & a generous closet space. The guest wing features 4 ensuite bedrooms complete with a large flex space which includes a full bar with a view of the pool area accessible through a large pass-through window making it an ideal spot for entertaining. For detailed specifications & more information, please reach out to the listing agent.

21487 N 110th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$11,950,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
8,889 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6645881
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This timeless Modern Mediterranean estate is located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Silverleaf's prestigious Upper Canyon. Captivating views are found in every room, capitalizing on its 2250' elevation and unique mountain setting. This grand residence is the ideal size encompassing 8,889 square feet of indoor livable space in addition to sprawling outdoor living areas. The superb interior styling, orchestrated by Donna Vallone of Vallone Design, creates the perfect blend of casual luxury with a sophisticated modern edge. The house was designed by architect Luis Antonio Bonilla owner of the Antigua Home Designs. The main level living offers a large Primary retreat with spa-like bathroom, a private guest suite, luxurious office, spacious living room with bar area, grand soaring ceilings and pocket doors seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor. The second-floor features two oversized guest suites. This estate home was built to the highest standard of quality and detail by Argue Custom Homes. Quality finishes throughout include the gourmet kitchen with Wolf/Subzero appliances, wide plank wood flooring, crown moldings and custom ceiling detail, extensive home automation system, back lit wine wall and private Office. Outdoor living spaces include a large covered rear patio in addition to two separate ramadas, a BBQ center, heated pool/spa and extensive turf. The immaculate and spacious 4 car garage including a custom show garage is yet another highlight. This home is a rare find in the neighborhood due to its combination of size, styling and views. Silverleaf is a renowned master-planned community known for its award-winning golf club, guard-gated privacy, dramatic classic architecture, proximity to the McDowell Mountains, and access to nearby schools, shopping, and dining. Silverleaf, located in North Scottsdale, Arizona, is a prestigious guard gated community known for its luxurious estates, exclusive golf courses, private Club and stunning desert landscapes. The Tom Weiskopf-designed Silverleaf Golf Course is a highlight for golf enthusiasts. With a blend of Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, the community offers a high standard of living, including upscale amenities like spas, fine dining, and exclusive shopping. Residents enjoy a harmonious balance between modern luxury and the natural beauty of the desert environment, making Silverleaf a sought-after destination for those seeking an exceptional lifestyle in North Scottsdale.

6525 E Bluebird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,900,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
7,870 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6613083
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This estate is is Lot II of III in the Bird Street Estates. Situated on over an acre, this estate epitomizes opulence and grandeur. As you step foot into this estate, you will immediately be captivated by its unparalleled architectural scale. This two-story marvel has been elevated to capture the breathtaking views of Mummy Mountain. Every element of its orientation and site design has been meticulously crafted to ensure that these awe-inspiring vistas are visible from every angle within the property. The essence of indoor-outdoor living is masterfully accentuated by a linear design expression, seamlessly blending the interior with the exterior. This residence boasts expansive indoor-outdoor living areas and is equipped with first-class amenities that cater to the most discerning tastes. An outdoor bar, a zero-edge pool, large covered patios, and a spacious grass lawn provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding and entertaining amidst the desert's natural splendor.

20715 N 103rd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$11,900,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
12,797 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6626124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impeccable Modern Mediterranean Estate in Silverleaf! Built by Salcito Custom Homes and designed by world renowned architect Dale Gardon this private gated estate offers unrivaled quality. Enter through the 13-foot glass and iron door to reveal 22-foot ceilings, exquisite chandeliers, marble floors and just under 13,000 square feet of modern Mediterranean living. Boasting 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, this exceptional and gracious estate is meticulously crafted with the highest quality materials and professionally maintained, delivering both luxury and comfort. The second floor Principal Suite is a revelation, encompassing a luxuriously large bedroom, dual walk-in closets and separate bathrooms, a sauna, and a whimsically beautiful shoe boutique! Dale Gardon has crafted conceptual ... plan options to include a Principal Suite on the main level. A sophisticated yet welcoming floor plan provides for relaxed living or sumptuous entertaining with a chef's kitchen, lovely breakfast nook, glamorous formal living, and dining rooms. The media / game room has Swarovski Crystal curtains, built in wine fridge, solid wood floors, silver leaf inlaid ceiling and a fireplace, all designed with unsurpassed attention to detail. There is a Fendi inspired detached 2,700 square foot guest home featuring a beautifully designed private spa, state of the art exercise room, outdoor shower, putting green and multiple patios. Other thoughtful amenities located throughout this magnificent nearly 2-acre estate include custom cabinetry, 2 laundry facilities, elevator, wine room, 8 fireplaces, formal European gardens, heated pool, gated auto court with six climate-controlled auto garages and an electric vehicle charging station, fully equipped barbeque pavilions and phenomenal views of the McDowell Mountains and Silverleaf golf course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make this home your own!

5939 E Quartz Mountain Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,900,000
5 Beds
8 Baths
8,320 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6629682
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular views, nestled in nature, this hillside home w/ a Private detached Guest house below offers peace and tranquility on the highest point of prestigious Hummingbird Lane. it features Floor to ceiling glass & expansive window walls thru-out on a single level . Premium quality construction & finishes: Double wall design w/15'' thick steel & concrete exterior walls + int. framing, the latest tech-engineering propelled the design. Wired for full automation; Hi-speed Tesla chargers in His & Her garages. Landscape near completion w/ a 50ft. circular Entry court that allows Parking for 6+ cars. 2 separate Pave-stone drives. Main home is 5600 sq.ft. and a private year-round Guest home of 2700 sq.ft. gives a multitude of options. Private pool at the Guest house a full sub-zero kitchn. Quiet sophistication is the theme of the home. The Views capture Mummy Mnt,.to the South and panoramic vistas to the North w/ a private Desert garden that provides a nature trail for access to Hummingbird Lane. A very special MM-Park view lot is double deep and fronts on Quartz mnt. on the North and ascends to Hummingbird Lane on the South for perfect sunrise & sunset walks. The guest house was designed for parents or family use w/ all the amenities of a SFR home. Separate Dining room/ family/Living room & breakfast area. Currently has a spacious 2 car garage, but home could be reconfigured for more garages or anything to suit the needs of a buyer who appreciates the finest Hillside/North views in PV. on a very special lot. $ Million+ Boulder Formation & landscape package w/ mature-select Ironwood & desert trees; the setting & location.....is a must see to appreciate.

6135 N 51st Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,799,000
7 Beds
7.5 Baths
6,929 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6678249
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Currently under construction for a December 2024 completion date is a sophisticated architectural gem by world renowned interior designer Erinn V, in collaboration with PHX Architecture. This spectacular, one-of-a-kind property sits in one of the most desirable areas of Paradise Valley boasting majestic views of Camelback, Mummy and Phoenix Mountain Preserve. Tall ceilings, walls of glass with charm and character depicting an architecture contemporary design with a mid-century influence. This is not your typical plain white box new-build. The original residence was an architecturally noteworthy home, designed by William Cartmell as his private residence in 1964. With respect to the historical significance and design, meticulous thought has been taken to rebuild and capture the core essence of the original character and architecture, making it a truly unique property. Features of the property include design and finishes with quality and substance for a discerning eye. Materials include limestone slab walls, white oak floors, wood ceilings, walnut millwork throughout, Kallista plumbing fixtures and Baldwin hardware. The gated property will also include a gated front courtyard, heated pool and spa, outdoor fireplace and two built-in BBQs. Main house will be 4965 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, private office and 4-car garage with windows showcasing mountain views. The great room with stunning walls of glass overlooking Camelback Mountain will be open to the formal dining room and adjacent den with tranquil garden and pool views. The Chef's kitchen with luxury appliances will have large sliding glass doors opening the kitchen to a garden with majestic Camelback views. The Owner's suite w/fireplace will feature a Zen Garden plus private garden for added relaxation, 2 walk-in closets and a 2nd laundry room. The impressive 1964 square foot Guest House will have 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bath baths, laundry room, full kitchen, great room and outdoor BBQ adjacent to the pool/spa. Perfect for entertaining and family guests. More about the designer: Erinn Valencich is an award-winning interior designer and real estate developer. Her firm, Erinn V Design Group has designed luxury residential and hospitality projects around the country for over 20 years. The granddaughter of a contractor-turned-fine-cabinetmaker and daughter of an architect who studied directly with Frank Lloyd Wright, she has a passion for transforming the average into the extraordinary. Erinn's luxury properties are regularly featured in Forbes, Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, New York Times and many more. Her portfolio boasts luxury residential projects from New York to Napa, ocean front villas in Mexico, to Las Vegas hotels and chic Los Angeles restaurants and record-breaking estates from the Sunset Strip to Montecito and beyond.

8185 E Alameda Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$11,500,000
5 Beds
11 Baths
5,950 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6593970
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Boasting nearly 10 acres of land, this gated estate includes a stunning Spanish-style main house, a full equestrian facility, an entertainment pavilion with attached theater, 2 standalone casitas, 2 staff apartments & a 1200 sqft multi-use building. The 5,950 sqft main home was renovated in 2021. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings, engineered hardwood floors & statement luxury light fixtures through-out the home. The primary suite presents a seating area, balcony & spa worthy ensuite. The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a heated pool, spa & putting green. The 5,000-SF, entertainment pavilion has a game room, full bar, kitchen, gym, yoga studio & 3rd-level deck with 360º mountain and city views. The equestrian facility encompasses 15 stalls, 2 arenas, 3 turnouts & 2 RV parking.

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