Your dream of a beautiful outdoor space may not come at the price you expect. Landscaping costs can quickly skyrocket, but other things may affect the final bill:

1. TopographyThe terrain of your property can determine how much work a landscaper will need to do to create the look you desire. A sloped backyard with a steep drop-off, for example, will require a lot more work to level it out and make it look nice. If that’s what you want, that’s fine, but you’ll have to factor that into your budget.

2. Lot SizeA smaller property will have a smaller budget than a larger one. A small yard may require less work and can be done for a lower cost than a large one. Regardless of the size of your property, you should be able to create an outdoor space that looks like you want it to look for an affordable price.

3. Physical BarriersAny tall shrubbery, trees, or other obstacles that separate your property from your neighbors can significantly affect what you can do with the space. Before planning an elaborate landscape design, make sure you can do what you want with the area.

4. Resource Protection Areas (RPAs)Some cities require landscapers to obtain a permit for any work done in RPAs. This is a new regulation affecting more and more municipalities each year. This depends on your region, so you should check and see if this applies to you and your property.

The Selective Plan ApproachOnce you speak with a landscape architect, you should know what conditions must be met and your budget to realize your dream landscape. At that point, you may have to reconsider your budget or the scope of your plan. Often, this means having to sacrifice some aspects of your design. If your idea can’t be done within your budget, you must select only certain elements. To keep your landscaping idea the most realistic and feasible, you have to know what to throw in the mix. Here is how the process works: Step 1: Start by planning for affordable things and give yourself what you want. Work with a limited budget, so you only plan things you cannot live without. Step 2: Add the extra things that you want but don’t need. This means that you can compromise on some things, but you have to have what’s most important. Step 3: Now, figure out what you can eliminate. This means that you have to go back to your plan, look at the big picture and figure out what you really can do without. Step 4: It’s important to communicate with your landscaper. They will help you achieve your goal, but it’s still up to you to express what you want. It’s possible to get your idea across in a non-intimidating way or over the top.

ConclusionIf you want a gorgeous outdoor environment, you have to take the time to figure out what you can do for the money that you’ll have to spend. You should have a plan ready to go on what you want and how much you can afford to pay for it. It may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it in the long run. If you’re dreaming of a stylish yet affordable landscape, you should contact a professional landscaper as soon as you can. DSLD Land Management Company is owned and operated by a family that prides itself in the exceptional quality of workmanship and consistently exceeding clients' expectations. We have built a great reputation in landscape construction as a prominent design/build company that serves central Alabama. If you’re looking for a landscape architect in Birmingham, AL, get in touch to meet our team! We look forward to meeting you.