How to handle this sticky situation?

Will try to keep this brief. A book club friend has used my friend as a handyman and likes his work. Handyman friend recently mentioned that book club friend’s husband has been laid off and is looking for work as a painter. I asked the husband for an estimate on a bathroom painting job and it seems high to me. Also, realized that perhaps the personal connections may make the situation complicated. Want to bow out but in a very tactful way and not in a way that will be awkward in terms of either friend.

Thinking of either saying the estimate was higher than I expected and/or that I’ve decided not to pursue the job right now. What do you guys think I should do?