For many homeowners, having a custom landscape is highly desired. Landscaping improves the curb appeal and value of your home. Aside from the economic gains, custom landscaping gives you the opportunity to enjoy your home and experience the pride of home ownership. While it may be easy to envision your landscape, putting your ideas into action may seem out of reach. Hiring a landscape contractor can help bring your landscaping ideas to life. Here are five tips for choosing the right landscape designer for your project.

1. Look for a referral from neighbors or other friends

Word of mouth remains one of the best way to find a landscaping company. You can get a first-hand look at the kind of work the landscaper does and how they designed it. You can gain more insight on details such as:

• Was the job completed with satisfaction?
• Was the work done on time?
• Do they show up when they say they will?
• Do they clean up and leave the property livable after each job?
• Were there any hidden surprises regarding the scope of work or payment issues?

2. Ask for a portfolio of recent work

When you look at a landscaper’s portfolio, you can get an idea on their style and types of jobs they have completed. Pay particular attention to jobs done in the style and materials you prefer. A well-qualified landscape contractor should be able to implement a variety of designs, but some tend to specialize in one type.

3. Do your due diligence

Some landscape contractors prefer to work informally. In fact, some may not be contractors at all. It is to your advantage, as well as for your protection, to make sure the contractor you are hiring with is fully licensed and has the required bonds in place. Also, check if the contractor has had any registered complaints. If so, how were those complaints handled?Other than the minimum legal requirements, find out if the landscaper has any certifications or specialties that sets them apart from other contractors. Sometimes, the lowest price may not be the best route.

4. Ask about warranties or guarantees.

If the contractor you are interviewing declines to offer any warranties or guarantees on products or labor, this may be a red flag.  While there are wide variations in what each contractor offers, it is essential to know what is covered and what is not. Knowing about warranties and guarantees will be beneficial in the event that things do not work out to your satisfaction. At Pristine Lawn & Landscaping, we offer limited warranty and guarantee.

5. Be clear on who the contact person is.

Having a clear channel of communication throughout the project is critical. Make sure you establish a point of contact with someone from the company–whether it’s a project manager or account representative.

Your home is probably the most significant investment, as well as a source of great pride and enjoyment. With the right landscaping contractor, you can achieve the custom landscape you’ve dreamed of.