Before you start any garden landscaping project, run some financial numbers to determine whether your project is a smart investment.

The numbers include the estimated costs, home value assessment, financing costs, and other related calculations.

Review cost-related issues to garden landscaping vs. buying a new home with a landscaping already in place.

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	link to notes: analyze the numbers
	estimate the cost of your project
	get your home value

Your 2nd step in garden landscaping is deciding what you would like to do and collecting ideas.

This includes reviewing -

• garden landscaping pics,
• garden design ideas,
• architectural plans,
• floor layouts,
• home gallery,
• landscaping company information,
• landscaping shopping and more.

Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.

The spec plan determines what type of landscaping materials and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each landscaping element such as design, plantings, materials, other.

You will use the spec plan and landscaping design to bid the project out to a contractor.

Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with a garden design contractor.

Give your landscaping ideas and specs to a contractor for review and bid analysis.

Use the local network (aligned with HomeAdvisor) to find the right contractor for your project.

Review guides for contractor selection and negotiation.

Step 5 is arranging financing once you select the contractor and finalize the contract for your project.

Using the equity value in your home is one of the best financing option for garden landscaping and design. Start with a home equity line of credit or a bank equity program.

Other options may include cash-out refinancing, personal savings, and/or financing from home improvement contractors.

Step 6 is where the project begins.

It starts with setting up the landscaping area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing planting, garden beds and walkways if needed, putting in the final touches, etc.

It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the landscaping inspected before releasing any funds.

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	working with the contractor
	managing the home remodeling project

	about a home project inspections
	find home inspector