A home without landscaping is like an unfinished work of art. Not only does landscaping improve the curb appeal of your home, but it is also the finishing touch helping to turn a house into a home. When considering updating landscaping, a tight budget can deter many homeowners from investing in their landscape. It is essential to work with a professional landscaper to make sure the work lasts and meets all rules and regulations. While landscaping budgets vary, a good general rule of thumb is that you should plan to spend about 20 percent of the value of your home in landscaping. So, if your home is worth $1,000,000, you would spend about $200,000. This investment not only adds and outdoor space to meet your lifestyle but it also increases your home’s value.
How Do People Afford Landscaping?
The simplest way is to budget for it, just as you would plan for utilities, groceries and homeowner’s association dues. Another way is to understand that the money you put into landscaping comes back to you when you sell your home. For many potential buyers, the condition of the lawn is critically important. For others, when two houses are otherwise equally desirable, they will choose the one with the most attractive and functional landscaping.
How Do I Maximize The Budget?
One of the best ways to maximize your budget is to consider what is realistic for your lifestyle and essential for your family. For example, you might have yard ideas based upon a grand garden you’ve seen in a neighbor’s yard or a magazine. But, this magnificent garden may not necessarily work for your family. Another item to consider is plants and flowers that you like the look of, might not necessarily work well in your climate or the locations of your yard. By focusing on what matters most, fits best with your lifestyle and will fare well in your surroundings, you’ll make the most out of your landscape budget.
Where Do I Begin?
A professional landscape company will discuss your wants, needs and lifestyle to determine what will work for you. After learning more, you might decide that you want your outdoor space to be a comfortable setting for barbecues and entertaining rather than putting your budget towards a grand garden, you shift your focus towards a different concept.
A professional also can advise on the costs and benefits of a patio vs. a deck and help you weigh the value of specific materials for each. They can help you consider safety measures if you have small children. They also can help you weigh the pros and cons of a fire pit vs. a fireplace based on your goals, the overall plan and your budget. They can help you determine if you need an area sheltered from the weather, such as a covered patio or pavilion. Professionals also can advise on which options might improve the sales value of your home.
The patio and deck are just one example. A landscape company will work with you to plan out an elaborate garden, a stepstone path, a grand entrance or whatever landscape elements will work with your lifestyle and budget. They will also advise on specific plants, helping you to understand which plants will contribute to your goals and be the most durable for the money. A professional landscaping company can advise about cost vs. benefits for every item in your landscape plan so that you obtain the best value for your money.
Takeaways
- A good rule of thumb is to budget 20 percent of your home’s value for landscaping.
- By focusing your spending on those items that fit with your lifestyle, you’ll maximize your budget.
- A professional can help you think about your lifestyle and plan your yard to support that lifestyle.
- A professional also can help you weigh costs vs. benefits as you consider each element in your landscape plan.
If you are ready to transform your landscaping while staying within your budget, contact the experts at Sponzilli Landscape Group today!
