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For most homeowners considering a landscaping project, budget is a primary concern. What is it going to cost turn your dreams into reality? Pricing varies from one project to the next based on a multitude of variables, from material costs to project scale and complexity, but it’s helpful to understand what moves the needle. If you’re considering updating your outdoor space, here’s how to budget for new landscaping in Reno and Sparks.

Identifying Initial Costs

Taking stock of your current landscape and the elements you want to add is a great place to begin determining a reasonable budget. Spend some time visualizing the additions you’d like included and how they work with what’s already in place in your outdoor space. Are there mature trees or existing walls that can work in the new design?

The scope of your project can point you toward the right kind of landscaping professional for the job. If your project involves updating existing beds and incorporating new plantings, a basic landscaper can probably handle the work. If you’re picturing new hardscape materials or large-scale upgrades, your project will benefit from the expertise of a landscape designer or landscape architect. These kinds of experts can create detailed landscape design plans for your outdoor space.

Here’s a tip: If you’re planning to spend $30,000 or more on a landscaping project, you want these kinds of experts on the team. More complicated projects, with details like different elevations, property grading, and the blending the new additions to established landscaping elements, benefit from experienced professionals with a deep grasp of space planning, balance, and layouts. Working with an experienced landscaping team can also improve cost efficiency by avoiding rookie mistakes that can add to the bottom line.

Factors That Affect Project Costs

There are specific factors that will affect a landscaping project’s overall cost, and choice of materials and project scale are the biggest. Precast pavers versus flagstone, for example, can be an enormous price difference, while larger and more complex designs that include elements like outdoor kitchen or pools will inevitably cost more than a patio upgrade. Details like irrigation systems, landscape lighting and the addition of elements like pergolas or fire/water features can also mean a greater investment.

Access and the existing terrain can also affect a project’s complexity and cost, as can soil quality. Drainage is another consideration. While it’s not something that many homeowners dream of, appropriate drainage is key to a well-designed landscape.

A good rule of thumb for landscaping upgrades is to base budgets on your home’s current value. It’s a useful way of creating a proportionate budget. Some experts advise allocating roughly 10% of your home’s value to landscaping to boost curb appeal and its overall market value. That number can be tailored to focus on specific areas, such as the entry landscaping or creating livable outdoor spaces with the addition of a patio cover.

To maximize your return on investment, consider how new elements might enhance your property’s value. A well-planned landscape that balances function and aesthetics while prioritizing durable and low-maintenance options is the best approach. Here in Reno and Sparks, popular landscaping upgrades include creating outdoor living spaces, incorporating water features and adding structured garden beds with drought-resistance plantings that add texture and color year round.

Landscape Cost Management Strategies

If the goal is saving money without compromising on your landscaping dreams, there are a few options.

• Phased projects break the design plan down into budget-friendly mini projects. With this approach, you begin the landscaping with foundational elements, like patio spaces, and then add pergolas, decks or other features.
• Choosing materials with care can also bring the price down. There are a number of durable and beautiful composites that mimic the look of natural stone but offer less maintenance and a much lower price tag.
• If you’re willing to put in some sweat equity, taking the DIY route for some parts of the project (like tear out) can also bring costs down.

Getting Started With Harris Landscape Construction

If you’re ready to start discussing potential costs to upgrade your landscaping here in Reno and Sparks, the team at Harris Landscape Construction is happy to answer your questions. We have decades of experience and our fully licensed, bonded and insured company is committed to quality craftsmanship. Your choice of landscaper can make or break your project, so it’s worth spending time researching your options. Contact us today to learn more.