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Arizona licensed, bonded & insuredServing Arizona homeowners since 2005Peoria design showroomWritten, itemized project scopesProject-specific payment & warranty terms
A note on the numbers

This isn't a cost. It's an investment.

The figures on this page are real and we don't hide them — that's how AE operates. Treat them as planning ranges, not a site-specific quote. Your actual scope and price depend on design, site conditions, materials, and the work each written proposal includes.

When you compare proposals, compare what each includes — the scope, the materials, the exclusions, the warranty terms, and how changes are handled — not just the price tag. A lower total can reflect different scope, so ask each builder to clarify the differences.

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Answers · Backyard Design-Build

What does a complete backyard transformation cost in Phoenix?

A full transformation means every square foot gets touched — surfaces, structure, water, plants, lighting, controls. Here's the honest investment for that scope in the Phoenix metro.

The honest version: Complete transformations in the Valley range $150,000–$400,000+ depending on lot size, pool inclusion, structure scope, and material selection. Anything advertised as 'complete backyard, $50K' is redefining the word 'complete.'

Educational estimate, not a quote. Ranges shown are Arizona-market planning estimates. Final pricing depends on site access, size, materials, engineering, drainage, utilities, permits, equipment access, existing conditions, and final scope. Binding pricing is only valid in a written proposal signed by an AE representative.

Budget to the high end. Use the top of every range on this page as your working number. The low end assumes easy access, sound existing conditions, and standard selections — real Arizona projects often carry demolition, drainage or grading work, upgraded materials, or conditions found once work starts. A planning range covers the listed scope only: separately priced site work, owner-direct costs, a reserve you hold for unexpected conditions, and expected upkeep all belong in the all-in household decision. Ranges are planning guidance, not a quote; the signed scope controls.
  • AZ ROC 211530 · 347738 · 341002 · 340966
  • Arizona-built since 2005
  • President, Southwest Hardscapes Association
01

Typical scope of a complete transformation

  • New pool + spa (15/25/25/25/10 payment schedule)
  • Paver or travertine deck around pool (500–1,200 sq ft)
  • Turf zone (400–1,000 sq ft) or artificial lawn play area
  • Shade structure (pergola or ramada, 200–500 sq ft)
  • Outdoor kitchen or BBQ island with utilities
  • Fire feature (fire pit, fire bowls, or fireplace)
  • Full planting design with irrigation zones
  • Landscape and architectural lighting
  • Optional: misting, audio, permanent AE LEDs trim lighting, automation controls
02

Investment tiers we build

  • Tier 1 (mid-lot, pool + basic structure): $150,000–$220,000
  • Tier 2 (larger lot, spa + kitchen + custom features): $220,000–$320,000
  • Tier 3 (resort-scale, multiple zones, high-end materials): $320,000–$500,000+
FAQ

Common questions.

Yes. We build the full master plan up front and can install in phases — typically pool + core hardscape first, then structure, then finishes. This spreads investment over 12–36 months without redoing work.

For a complete transformation of this scope, design + engineering typically runs $6,000–$18,000 depending on complexity. This is credited into the build contract when you proceed with AE.

See real transformations at your investment level

Send us your target investment range — we'll match you with 3 completed AE projects at similar scope with real photos and specs.

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Your home investment — protected

Why this is an investment, not a cost.

An AE backyard is engineered to add daily livability and long-term home value. We publish honest ranges and build to code with a licensed and bonded Arizona crew. AE provides project-specific workmanship and manufacturer-warranty information in the signed agreement. Website summaries are for planning only.

  • Licensed, bonded & insured in Arizona. ROC 340966 (R-62) · ROC 341002 (R-3) · ROC 347738 (KA-5) · ROC 211530 (CR-21). Most Arizona contracting work valued at $1,000 or more — or requiring a permit — must be performed by a properly licensed contractor, subject to statutory exemptions. Verify the legal entity, license status, and classification with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
  • Real ranges, itemized scope. You see materials, finishes, equipment models, and a line-item budget before you sign — not a one-line "pool — $90,000."
Next step

Plan your investment with a designer.

Five minutes, a real range, and no sales pressure. Or vet any Arizona contractor (us included) before you spend a dollar.

Related guides

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