Does anyone contract out landscape design services?

Question

Hi BP,

I have a few questions for the Bigger Pockets forum! My question is do any of you use services from landscape designers or landscape architects to either sell homes or during a flip/rehab? Either as an online consultant or a local landscape designer that provides these services.

If so...

A) Do you pay an hourly fee, or lump sum?

B) Are these services quick sketches or professional drawings?

Is there a market out there for this type of service or is this something that most of you DIY? I'm sure there are landscape designers/architects that cater to exactly what i'm asking about but in my research I haven't found a leader. Thoughts? Opinions?

-Kelly

Jason K. · Answer

Hello,

I am a landscape contractor who has a background / education in landscape architecture. I often get calls from people looking to enhance a properties curb appeal and outdoor space in hopes that it will interest buyers.  I know of designers that also get these calls.  There is deff a market for this and it gets better if you can show someone the potential of your services.   An ability to produce b4 and after images is a priceless sales tool.

I charge both the hourly and lump sum depending on the client. Some folks will baulk at paying for a design and others want the design to confirm what they will be getting. Often I can moc something up and quote you a price for the moc up and installation in less than 24 hours. Unless you need a scaled design, then its a week or more.    Hope that answers your Q.

Kelly Willett · Answer

Thanks for the reply Aaron, working for a landscape contractor I can't tell you how beneficial it is to know which companies provide the best products. The company I work for has developed good relationships with suppliers and subsequently the clients benefit from that relationship.

-Kelly

Aaron McGinnis · Answer

We pretty much always end up doing landscaping, and it's more efficient for me to hire it out to a pro who has the right equipment and vendor connections than to try and do it myself.

For example... right now we're clearing an overgrown lot that needed a bobcat just to get out the underbrush. It's far better to hire a full time service to do that  kind of thing.

Kelly Willett · Answer

Hey Jason,

Thanks for the reply! That is exactly what I was wondering! I'm guessing that you mostly service your immediate zip code, would you say that most of the people that are contacting you are homeowners or real estate professionals?