![]() Whether or not you choose to hire your project out, you’ll want to have a good idea of what everything costs. Don’t settle for a sub-par contractor – even if it’s you! Improperly executed landscaping can also result in hazardous conditions and/or decreased property value. There might be a very good reason you weren’t aware of! Go with your gut when it comes to choosing a landscape professional, and be sure to ask for references and proof of insurance.Ī final note on hiring a professional: keep in mind that re-doing a landscape project can sometimes be more costly than doing it right the first time. ![]() Landscape experts will be honest with you about what they can deliver that is within your budget, but if a bid seems excessively high or low don’t be afraid to ask why. Remember that the lowest bid is not always the best deal. If you decide to have some or all of the work done by a landscape company, it’s often a good idea to bid your project out to two or three companies. Most landscape experts will not charge for an initial consultation, so it doesn’t hurt to see what they have to say. It’s a buffer between you and the outside world, it’s an extension of your home, and it’s a dynamic system that interacts with itself in complex ways.Ī professional landscape designer will likely point out aspects of your property or plan that you never thought of, and come up with suggestions that may actually save you money while improving your results. Your landscape is so much more than a collection of plants. If you’re planning to do the work yourself you may be tempted to skip this step, but unless you are very experienced in landscape design you are much better off at least talking to a landscape professional. First, list everything that absolutely has to be done for the safety and security of people, pets and property. At this point, it’s good to sit down and decide what’s the most important to you. For instance, if building an outdoor spa and kitchen will save you a ton of money on travel expenses by allowing you to vacation at home, you may decide it’s worth spending a little more on.īy now you should have a clear idea of what you need and what you want. 10-15% of the value of your home is a reasonable guide, but your ultimate investment amount will depend on your finances and how you plan to use the property. Keep in mind that your landscape improvements will improve your home value, too, as well as your quality of life. Next, it’s time to decide how much you’re willing to spend. You will decide what’s important and what’s realistic at a later point, but for now, go wild! Just and list what you would love to have in your yard. In that case, you’ll want an appropriate selection of plants and/or hardscaping for privacy and aesthetic appeal.įor this step, don’t hold back. Or perhaps you crave a lush, beautiful scene out your windows, a haven for wildlife, cut fresh flowers for your table, or privacy from the outside world.Love to entertain? Besides a kitchen, you could install an outdoor wet bar, or invite your friends to hang out in your own outdoor living room or gather around your fire pit.Is cooking your thing? Consider a grilling station or an outdoor kitchen.Have you always dreamed of having your own outdoor pool? Why not?.Do you love to grow your own vegetables? How about raised beds and a greenhouse?.Then, write down what yard and landscape features might help you achieve this lifestyle. ![]() Think first in terms of lifestyle – how you want to enjoy your property. Now, make a list of the landscape improvements you really want. And, make a list of all the landscape plants and materials you already have. While you’re there, take note of what you really love about your existing yard. Go out and walk your property in person, and take note of any potential liabilities you need to fix.
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