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Why Cheap Backyard Quotes Usually End Up Costing More (A Contractor's Honest Breakdown)

January 11, 20257 min read
Elan Benor

Elan Benor

Co-Founder, Moda Outdoor Living

I'll admit it—our quotes aren't the cheapest. And I'm okay with that.

Here's why: I've rebuilt too many projects from contractors who were 'the cheapest option.' By the time homeowners call us, they've already spent $20,000-$40,000 on work that failed.

Where Cheap Contractors Cut Corners

1. Base Preparation

Proper base prep for pavers requires excavation, grading, compaction, and drainage. It's labor-intensive and invisible once done. Cutting corners here saves money upfront but causes shifting and cracking within 2-3 years.

2. Material Quality

Not all pavers, pool finishes, or turf products are equal. We use name-brand materials with warranties. Cheap alternatives fade, crack, and fail faster.

3. Permits and Insurance

Pulling permits costs time and money. So does proper insurance. Some contractors skip both—leaving YOU liable if something goes wrong.

4. Skilled Labor

Good crews cost more. They also work faster, make fewer mistakes, and treat your property with respect.

The pricing was fair and transparent—no hidden fees or financial surprises. — Joe M.

💡 Pro Tip

If a quote is 40%+ cheaper than others, ask specifically: What's your base preparation process? What brand materials do you use? Are permits included?

What Our Clients Say

"Working with Moda Outdoor Living was a breeze. The team was professional, efficient, and attentive to every detail. They truly listened to our vision and brought it to life, exceeding our expectations. The pricing was fair and transparent—no hidden fees or financial surprises."
JM

Joe M.

Yelpvia Yelp

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a quote is fair?

Get 3-5 quotes and compare itemized breakdowns. Our quotes detail every cost so you can compare accurately.

What if I have a tight budget?

We offer different project tiers. We'd rather do a smaller project well than cut corners on a larger one.

Ready to Transform Your Backyard?

Let's discuss your project. Book a free consultation and I'll personally walk you through your options.

Elan Benor

Elan Benor

Co-Founder, Moda Outdoor Living

Elan co-founded Moda Outdoor Living with Ilan Koifman after they met during Ironman training. Together, they've completed over 1,000 backyard transformations across Los Angeles, bringing transparent pricing and exceptional craftsmanship to every project.

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