My Yard Needs An Overhaul, What Should I Do?

You will need to consider a few different important topics before you begin such as:  What is my budget?  What elements do I have to have and what can I do without or wait to do later?  What sort of functionality do I need in my yard?  Once you have answers to those questions you are ready to start the process. These questions, along with a multitude of simpler questions, will need to be addressed in order to help develop a quality design. 

You will need to select an excellent designer, landscape architect or an experienced contractor with design capabilities. The right design is a priority to help you get the most out of your new space.  Many homeowners are in a hurry to get to the end result without paying enough attention to the design portion of the project and later regret skipping this important step. 

Once you have developed the design with your designer and met your budget constraints with the contractor, you are ready to move forward.  If you live in an area with an HOA you will need to get their approval on your plans and potentially will need city permits for any structural or other items such as utilities.  Make sure that the contractor you pick has a good reputation and that you can communicate well with him/her.  Entering a contractual relationship with a contractor is much like a marriage–it can either be wonderful or it can go bad in a hurry. Some homeowners pick their contractor based just on price and this can sometimes be the first sign that he/she has not done their homework properly.  When a contractor is in the middle of a project and realizes they are losing money, it is likely that you may get short-changed in the quality of your materials, time spent supervising, sub-contractors or suppliers not getting paid etc.  Make sure you pick based on references, reputation, insurance (work comp. & liability), experience and always check the State Licensing Board for license status.  www.cslb.ca.gov  

Now you are ready to begin!  A designer who is talented and experienced with colors and textures can help you pick the specific materials that you will use in your yard to achieve the look you want.  This is where it really pays off that you took the time to choose the right professionals as they will be able to help you when certain roadblocks, changes, questions and problems arise (and they surely will). You will be able to navigate these challenges with ease and before you know it your project will be complete and ready for your enjoyment!  With the warm weather here to stay for several months, you and your family will be able to enjoy your outdoor space now and for many years to come.

If you think you could use help in getting through this process, Landcrafters, Inc. is there to help you from start to finish by providing designers and competent, highly trained personnel that are motivated to help you every step of the way.  You can reach Landcrafters at www.landcrafters.com or by phone at 949-249-1086.