Nowhere is the use of landscaping services more popular than here in the North West. We are just as well known for our lush, green surroundings as we are for the rain that keeps it that way. Living in the Rose City means you’ve been entrusted with your personal slice of Portland Landscape. We take great pride in our natural beauty, and we want to make sure we are doing our part to maintain and enhance that beauty. Hiring a well-qualified landscaping company can show your commitment to showcasing our stunning surroundings, however, there are an enormous amount of choices when it comes to deciding on which Portland landscaper to use. Considering how important our surroundings are to us, this is not a decision to take lightly. Here are the Top 4 mistakes Portlanders can make when choosing their landscape company:
1. Not having one!
It is very easy to reason that you can mow your own lawn. Its not that hard, and, hey it gets you off the couch and doing something active, right? Wrong! Mowing your lawn is the least of your landscape. And even that takes more skill than one would think. The knowledge and skill it takes to maintain a beautifully manicured lawn isn’t something to be dismissed. And who are we kidding? You work hard all week so you can spend your Saturday enjoying your landscape, not working on it.
2. Not doing your research
Now that you’ve decided you need to use a landscaper, do you just Google “Portland Landscaper” and hire the first one the pops up? Not at all. It is important to not only get several bids, but research those companies. Check out the company’s website. Call the Better Business Bureau. Ask for proof of insurance, both liability and workman’s comp. Make sure they carry a Landscape Contracting License. And never underestimate the value of asking them for references. Most companies are happy to provide you with names, addresses and phone numbers of current or past clients. Contact these people and make sure to ask them specific questions about the level of service and quality of work.
3. Choosing the “cheaper” option
In this economy, it makes sense that you are looking for for a deal. No one ever sets out wanting to pay the most money. However, the old saying is true, you get what you pay for. Value is what is important. You want to get the most bang for your buck. Some companies may offer the lowest price, but how much experience and professionalism are they bringing to the table? These along with warranties, customer service and skill level, are difficult to put a price on. This goes along with doing your research…get several different bids and make sure you are comparing all the aspects of the quotes. Decide what is going to be important to you personally and budget accordingly.
4. Not signing a contract
You may shy away at that word, but a contract is the very best way to protect yourself and the investment you are making in your landscaping company. But signing a contract does you no good unless you’ve read it! A landscaping contract should not be a lengthy, complicated document. Take a few moments to make sure you know what to expect. Be clear on their schedules and what pricing is for anything NOT included in your contracted price. And feel free to ask them to make changes based on your needs. A good landscaper should be willing to work with you to make sure you are getting exactly what you want.
Paradise Restored enjoys designing for all styles and size of properties. Every project is unique and each property presents different design plan solutions. We look forward to coming out to view your property if you’ve been thinking about a landscape transformation. Please contact us for your Complimentary Consultation @http://www.paradiserestored.com/exterior-landscape-design/contact-us/
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