Getting multiple contractors involved will be your best bet to get a reliable estimate, though you need to come up with a scope of work.

I assure that is the conversation in those board rooms "ah, almost feel sorry for the suckers, but hey, business is business". 

I'd bet if there were a good field of competition the price would drop

I also read in real estate by the numbers that it's risky to bet on market appreciation.

If not, buying a turnkey, rent-ready property could be a better first bet.

My son just joined the Navy and now that I’m an empty nester I want to make a shift and bet on myself!

@DeBret McGee IIYour best bet is to secure a deal with creative financing, seller financing or meter lease options.

If you are in a high fire zone, the California Fair Plan is likely your best bet.

bet dollars to donuts its leveraged to the eyeballs. 

Hell, I might be even-steven if we had one, and I'd bet money @Russell Brazil and @Nathan Gesner would be there with me despite the fact they're two of the smartest dudes in here because they're not soft pedalers.