With the rise in the DIY trend, sometimes it’s okay to realize that the scope of a project is outside of your wheelhouse. That’s where a professional landscaping and hardscaping company comes in. As professionals, we talk to a lot of clients who are choosing a landscaper for the first time. While we understand that we may not be the perfect fit for everyone, we still like to help homeowners choose the right company for them and that includes asking these important questions:
1. What kind of project are you looking for and what is the purpose?
Is your space only for functionality such as a retaining wall or some drains? Do you want a space to entertain your family and friends? From there, you have to decide what’s important to you as far as plants, lighting, features (fire, water, kitchen, etc.), style, and more! This may sound overwhelming but that’s where an expert landscape designer comes in. That can take whatever you want in your space and whatever it’s purpose is and put it into a design that fits in your yard.
2. What are your expectations for your landscaper?
Do you want to be 100% in the loop during your project? Do you just want their team to completely handle it? No matter what your expectations are, make sure that you communicate them upfront. A professional company should communicate with you how and as often (or as little) as you want to make sure you are getting exactly what you want.
3. What is your budget?
One thing you never want to do is overextend yourself financially, especially if you’re trying to install a space that you want to be able to enjoy. You don’t want to have to put in extra hours to pay for it! While you may not know exactly what your space may cost, it’s good to have a number in mind that you are wanting to invest. From here, your landscape designer can help you figure out what’s realistic in that budget and find the most cost-effective way to phase your project (if needed). Additionally, ask your landscaper if they have any financing options. A lot of times, landscapers run special financing offers during their slower times of the year so keep an eye out! If you take anything away from this post, let it be this, don’t be afraid to tell your landscaper what you’re looking to spend!
4. Do you have more than one phase in mind?
Like we said above, sometimes your project may need to be phased out. To a professional designer, this is no problem! It’s important to have all your hopes and dreams into your design so that you can make sure you’re doing things in the most cost-effective way possible (because who wants to pay for things twice). Do you know you want an outdoor kitchen someday? Tell your designer. Do you want a pergola or pavilion in the future? Maybe a pool? Let them know! You’ll want to make sure that all the future ideas will make sense and flow with whatever you’re installing now!
5. Do you need a design?
In most cases, especially for outdoor living spaces such as paver patios, kitchens, landscaping, etc., a landscape company should put together a well thought out design for your home. These can range from full-color CAD drawings to 3D renderings. Some 3D renderings can be so realistic that you can actually put yourself IN the space! With technology being what it is, there really should be no reason for you to be able to see what your project will look like before it’s installed!
6. When do you need your project completed?
If you have a date in mind that you need your project done, you’re definitely going to want to plan ahead! Most reputable landscape companies will be in high demand and can be booked out as much as 6 weeks or more in their busy seasons. If there’s a date of completion you need, make sure that you’re upfront with the company from the beginning so that neither of you waste your time if it’s not possible!
In addition to these questions, don’t forget to look at online reviews and make sure that the company is insured. Do you know anyone that’s used them before? It may be a good idea to get a personal account of how their project went! At the end of the day, you can only decide what’s best for your home. What is the deciding factor for you? Is it price alone? Make sure that you’re comparing apples to apples when it comes to what is being installed and how it’s being installed. Do your research and hire a professional, locally owned company like our team at Envisioning Green. You won’t be sorry!
Are you interested in talking to our team about your outdoor space? Call us today at 618-307-6677 or click here to submit a consultation request on our website!
