Question
Dear Jeff,
I want to install an irrigation system on my sloping 3/4 acres property. I can't seem to find any information on which system is the best (i.e. Rain Bird, Hunter, TORO, etc.). I am not mechanically handy, so I want a very reliable system. I received one estimate with 9 zones (Toro) which was priced $6,500! Ouch! I leave in NC and the summers are very hot

Answer
All of the brands you mentioned are good quality products.  The problem is that most of the cost is going to be in the labor to install the system (I am assuming that you have to start from scratch).  Shopping around can pay off for both contractors and supplies.  If you tell your contractor that you want to cut costs, they should provide you with some alternatives.