Aussies have a great relationship with the outdoors. We love being outside soaking up some rays. We love the beach, bush walks and the parks. But more than anything we love indoor/outdoor spaces in our own backyard. In fact, enjoying a barbie and some cold ones with a few mates is the pinnacle of enjoyment and relaxation. So, it makes sense to spend some money getting it right, right? Unfortunately, most of us don’t have the time or know-how to plan and transform our garden. This is why most people find the services of a landscaper so useful and, ultimately, good value. So, let’s explore what a landscaper can do you and look at some of the costs involved.
What is Landscaping?
Landscaping begins with the creation of a full plan. This plan will include to main elements, Softscaping (plants and soil) and Hardscaping (retaining walls, pathways, pavers etc). A landscape plan also factors in drainage issue that your land may present. On the other hand, gardening can be considered tidying or improving an existing landscape. Furthermore, landscape gardening is considered somewhere in the middle.
How Much Does a Landscaper Cost?
As a general rule, you should allow between 5 and 10% of your house cost for a full landscaping job. Sorry, do I hear the clatter of dropped BBQ tongs hitting the ground? Seriously though, this may seem like a lot but if your house is worth $500,000 then 5% is $25,000. This might include the plan, driveways, decking, patios and other hardscaping such as retaining walls. This level of improvement would transform your property and improve its kerb appeal and market value.
“Adding excellent landscaping can improve property values by 7%”
According to a study produced by Clem University, an excellent level of landscaping can boost your properties market value by as much as 7%. The opposite is also true. As such, most real estate agents agree that a neglected garden can decrease a properties value significantly.
