Thinking about a landscape project or an entire landscaping renovation? Budgeting is obviously a major element in decision making. Consider this rule of thumb: The money you put into your landscaping should be equal to about 10 percent of your home’s value. It’s a worthwhile investment, considering a good landscape design can add up to 15 percent to your home’s value. Of course it’s important to pick the right landscaping partner for your project that also fits your budget. Here we offer details on the process, elements and budget for landscaping projects.
Assessing the Site
When your designer first begins the planning process, he or she will do what’s called a “site analysis.” This assessment includes a few different elements. The designer will take an inventory of the plant life you already have growing on your property. Most people have no idea what’s really growing on their property. There could be plants that may have gotten lost in overgrowth that can be relocated, pruned, thinned or weeded. The plan should also call for taking care of any dead trees, toxic plants and tripping hazards like protruding roots.
Your designer will also assess any current hardscaping on your property and evaluate what can be salvaged and what can’t. Can any damaged walls, walkways or patios be repaired or is it more cost effective to replace them? Your designer will help you make all of these decisions.
What Do You Want?
Of course, when you budget for landscaping projects you want to make sure you’re getting the main things you really want. Sometimes, deciding on your own desires can be one of the hardest parts. Some questions you might want to consider are: Do you want fresh flowers year ‘round? Do you want to be able to enjoy the presence of wildlife or do you plan on growing your own fruits and vegetables and want to install wildlife barriers? Will you want to take advantage of a pool or hot tub at some point in the year? Maybe you want to leave green space to play family games like volleyball, cornhole or bocce ball. When thinking about your desired landscape you’ll want to also consider the features that will get the most use or you will enjoy the most like a patio, outdoor kitchen or living space.
Hiring a Professional
Avoid paying for mistakes. Hire a professional to map out a master plan who will also make sure to cover any drainage issues your property may have. Make sure you understand the costs. To do this you’ll want to get at least three estimates from different contractors.
Considering Your Return on Investment
Now that you know your landscaping can add up to 15 percent to your home’s value, you’ll want to consider your return on investment when you budget for landscaping. Curb appeal adds to the perceived value of a home. Some things to consider are: How long do you plan to live in this home? If you plan to be there for a while, will you be affected by any long-term maintenance costs your new landscape may require? Depending on the features you put into your design you’ll want to consider if it makes more financial sense to do everything at once or build in phases over several years. It’s also important to note that most trees and shrubs will increase in value over time so don’t worry about planting young plants if you plan to live in your home for a while.
Choose Seiler’s to Help You Design and Budget for Landscaping
You know how important landscaping is to the value and enjoyment of your home. That’s why you want to choose a partner you can trust. At Seiler’s we will work with you every step of the way to help you design and execute the landscape of your dreams, because you deserve it. Contact us today and tell us about your project goals.