Taking on any landscape design project requires three things: a vision, a trusted partner to help you achieve this vision, and the budget for it. While we believe everyone deserves their dream living spaces, we know that it is quite a costly venture to take on at times, not something everyone has the money to spare for. Which is why we’re here with a few budgeting tips!
Being able to set a budget and stick to that budget helps you stay on track with any landscape project, giving you the outcome you want without completely breaking your bank.
Let’s begin!
Understanding your Landscape Design Project’s Scope
Before you even begin setting a budget, you should first look into the different factors you have to consider — after all, we’re all about setting realistic expectations here.
Here’s some of the things you should take note of prior to budget-making:
Set your Goal
Before focusing on the money part, first, think about your vision. How do you want your landscape to look? What do you want to design in the first place?
Think about things like types of plants, hardscaping features (like patios, walkways, and retaining walls), water features, and lighting. Making a detailed plan or sketch can help you see the final result and set clear goals.
Assess your Space
Look at your current landscape to see what you already have and what needs to be changed or added even before you start envisioning what you want it to look like.
This will help you figure out which areas need a lot of work and which only need small changes. Knowing your current landscape will also help you decide what to do first and how to spend your budget.
Now that you know what to consider, it’s time we get down to setting a realistic budget!
Setting your Landscape Project Limit
Determine Your Budget Limit
Establish a maximum budget that you’re comfortable with. This amount should be realistic and consider your financial situation. It’s important to set a firm limit to prevent overspending, which can lead to unnecessary stress.
Break Down Costs
Divide your project into manageable sections and allocate a portion of your budget to each. Typical categories include:
- Plants and Trees
Consider the cost of different plant varieties, sizes, and quantities.
- Hardscaping
Factor in expenses for materials like stone, brick, concrete, and wood.
- Labour
If you plan to hire professionals, include labour costs in your budget.
- Equipment and Tools
Account for any equipment rentals or purchases needed for the project. - Maintenance
Consider ongoing maintenance costs to keep your landscape looking its best.
- Research Costs
Research the costs associated with each category. Visit local nurseries, and hardware stores, and consult with contractors to get accurate estimates. Online resources and forums can also provide valuable insights into average prices for materials and services in your area.
Ask for a Quote First
How to go about your landscape project is up to you, but if you do want to hire a professional — the budget-friendly way is to make sure you are getting value for your money.
How can you do this? Get quotes from different contractors. Compare their services, prices, and customer reviews to find the best option for your budget. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for discounts, especially if you want to hire them for several parts of the project or even the entirety of your project.
Monitor your Expenses Throughout
Budgeting doesn’t stop once the construction gets going!
Keep an eye on your expenses during the project. Regularly compare what you’re spending to your budget to make sure you’re staying on track. If you see any differences, adjust your plans to avoid spending too much.
Note that there will be some instances where you would have to manage costs that were not in the budget. In case this happens, make sure you are considering its effects on your own finances and consult with your project manager to set a realistic workaround and you’ll be good to go.
Need Reliable Landscaping Support?
Budgeting for a landscape design project involves careful planning and thoughtful decision-making that you have to commit to be able to stay on track.
By defining your vision, setting a realistic budget, prioritising features, and considering sustainable practices, you can create a beautiful and functional landscape design that you and your family can enjoy!
In the end, it’s all about making sure you set a realistic budget you can work with to make the entire project worthwhile. We don’t want you cutting out too much just to make it cheaper and ending with results that don’t match your preferences.
Our team at VL Designs understands that every individual has their own landscape vision and budget and with our backyard solutions, we’re here to cater to your budget and create a design that does not compromise on quality!
Contact us today and let us help you turn your landscape design vision into reality with our sustainable and affordable designs.
