by An Arizona couple paid over $400,000 to Settlers West Home Builder LLC for a custom home and guest house, but both projects remain incomplete. The builder declared bankruptcy in late 2023, leaving the couple in legal and financial turmoil.
What Happened
Elizabeth Matthews and her husband, residents of Arizona, say they are facing financial and emotional distress after paying large sums for two construction projects that were never completed.
The builder, Settlers West Home Builder LLC—operated by brothers Andrew and Gabriel Carranza—abandoned both projects and filed for bankruptcy in December 2023.
Key Details
- In May 2022, the couple signed a contract to build a custom home in the Catalina Foothills for over $1 million, paying $150,000 upfront with a loan.
- Later, they agreed to build a guest house on the same property for over $300,000, again paying $150,000 upfront, this time in cash.
- Despite spending additional amounts—$105,000 in upgrades for the guest house and $60,000 for the main home—very little progress was made.
- By late 2023, only a partial frame of the guest house was completed.
- When the couple requested a refund, they were denied.
Reactions or Statements
After being left with two incomplete structures, the couple filed a fraud lawsuit against Settlers West Home Builder LLC.
Their case is one of at least 18 complaints filed against the company prior to the license being revoked in February 2024.
Elizabeth Matthews stated that they hope their story will warn others about the risks of trusting unverified or poorly-reviewed contractors.
Investigation or What’s Next
With the builder bankrupt and its license revoked, the Matthews face an uphill battle.
They estimate they will need to spend at least another $400,000 to complete the two homes with a different builder.
The couple’s lawsuit could take months, or even years, to resolve in court. Meanwhile, the unfinished structures remain on their property.
FAQs
Q: Who was the builder involved in this case?
A: Settlers West Home Builder LLC, operated by Andrew and Gabriel Carranza.
Q: How much money did the couple lose?
A: Over $400,000, including upfront payments and upgrade costs.
Q: What action has been taken against the builder?
A: The builder filed for bankruptcy in December 2023, and its license was revoked in February 2024.
Q: Are other customers affected?
A: Yes, at least 18 complaints have been filed against the same company.
Q: What should homeowners do to avoid similar scams?
A: Always verify licenses, check reviews, and avoid large upfront payments without clear contractual safeguards.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Elizabeth Matthews and her husband’s experience is a harsh reminder of the importance of due diligence when hiring a home builder.
With over $400,000 lost and only partial construction to show for it, the couple is now embroiled in legal proceedings and must find a new way to complete their dream project.
As property-related scams rise nationwide, their story underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the housing industry.
