Buyers seeking a fixer-upper to break into the market or find a great-value way to climb the property ladder will have probably walked around houses with gardens that need a fair bit of work.
If the yard is completely overgrown, but you love the house, then consider calling in a landscape gardener.
Investing in landscaping is no different from asking a builder to price upgrades to the house. Each improvement will enhance your enjoyment of your home and increase its value.
Finding a suitable landscaper is a challenge if you’ve never employed one before but these tips should help.
Budget and timeframe
A firm budget is critical to the project. If you change plans and seek more features, landscaping costs will spiral out of control, just like construction costs.
Your goals
Be clear on what you wish to achieve before seeking a contractor. Do you want a cottage garden with lots of flowerbeds, or lawns where children can play? Can your budget stretch to an entertainment area that includes outdoor cooking facilities?
Three quotes
Approach three candidate landscapers and give them precisely the same brief. They should return with a price in line with your budget and sketches that should combine your goals and their creativity. Some companies will offer sophisticated 3D visualizations of the project.
Work samples
Always ask for references from recent clients. Good landscapers will also have photographs of work they’ve completed.
Critical questions
Your landscaper should have had formal training, so ask where they obtained their qualifications. Your due diligence should also include asking about their insurance coverage, experience and any guarantees associated with the completed work.
Decision time
Assess your interaction with each landscaper to judge whether they are creative, have acknowledged your goals, committed to your timeline, communicated well, possess attention to detail and will be punctual.