How to Choose the Right Landscaping Contractor
Introduction
Stuck on trying to choose the best landscaping contractor for your backyard? Let us help guide you!
We are going to be sharing our top tips for choosing the best landscaper for the job. It can be difficult to sift through all the choices, as you most likely have quite a few options to pick from. Knowing what you want in advance will make the process much easier, and it will ensure that you choose someone that you will be happy with.
Let’s get started!
Know What You Want Before Hiring
A Person Plans out Landscape Design on Paper - Photo by Lex Photography
The first step in the process is to know exactly what you want in your landscaping.
Before you gather information on potential landscapers, you should know what skills are most important for your design.
Consider asking some of these questions before getting started:
- What will the garden be used for?
- Will there be any water features?
- Should your plants be functional or just decorative?
- How much hardscaping is going to be involved?
If you aren’t sure, consider collecting gardening magazines to pick out features and designs that you like. Then try to envision or sketch out a design you like, so you have something to reference when looking for a landscaping contractor. The more clear communication the better.
List Out Your Options
A Person Writing Out a List - Photo by picjumbo.com
Once you know what you are looking for, it is time to make a list.
Look for reputable reviews of local landscape contractors online, and talk to your neighbors and friends to find trustworthy referrals. If you see a backyard that you like, ask the homeowner who they had help them.
Now that you have a list of some of the best landscape contractors in the area, it is time to narrow it down. Try to get down to 2 or 3 choices. Once you have done that, you can request a formal bid to landscape for you.
Do Your Homework
New Flowers Being Planted in a Straw-Mulched Bed - Image by RobBrownAustralia on Pixabay
Even if you get recommendations from others, make sure to carefully research each option carefully before settling on your final choice.
Be careful and avoid contractors that offer really, really cheap pricing. Typically with landscaping, you will get what you pay for. Make sure to look for companies that have experience in a variety of different services, and that have reliable, strong references from past clients as well.
Use the internet to your advantage when it comes to your research. Check the company’s social media, their websites, and sites that provide reviews like Yelp.
Be Flexible
Lawn Mowing in Progress - Photo by Skitterphoto on Pixabay
Make sure to keep your options open, and don’t get too stuck on one professional in case they don’t pan out. There are many different varieties when it comes to contractors like this. These professionals can be referred to as landscape design firms, lawn care companies, etc. So make sure that these phrases are included in your search.
Consider these qualities before making your final choice:
- How long they have been in business?
- Their satisfaction guarantees
- The company’s Better Business Bureau rating
- Customer reviews and testimonials
- Pictures from their past projects
Consider Personalities
Two People Shaking Hands - Photo by Geralt on Pixabay
Even if you find the most skilled landscaping contractor in the world, it won’t matter if you can’t communicate with them. You need someone who can easily talk to you and understands what you want.
Here are some of the key personality traits to keep in mind for your potential landscape contractor:
- Good communication skills
- Creativity
- Flexibility
- Patience
Our Final Thoughts
A YouTube Video on Choosing a Lawn Care Company
We hope with this list, you are able to find the best landscaping contractor possible. With a little research and patience, you are sure to have a great experience with the professional you choose.
If you are in our area, and want someone who truly cares about your needs, consider contacting us for your landscaping needs!
