SEATTLE, March 19, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Porch.com (http://porch.com), the home network for homeowners and home professionals, shares five questions homeowners should consider before they hire a landscaper.
"Hiring a landscaper can be incredibly helpful and a huge time saver," explains Anne Reagan, Editor-In-Chief of Porch. "But before hiring a landscaping professional, there are a few questions to consider in order to save you time and money in the future."
1. Know Your Limitations
Do you have a strict budget? Do you like to be involved in the landscaping process? Before interviewing a landscaper, be clear on your limitations. If you need a service for only certain times of the year, or a landscaper who is capable beyond simple mowing, make sure you are clear about this. Many projects have gone awry due to miscommunication, so understanding yourself, and your needs, will help alleviate future problems.
2. Know Your Property
If you have a history of tree branches falling during winter storms, or questions about vegetation on your property line, make sure you communicate this to your future landscaper. A good landscaping service professional will be able to survey your property and make recommendations, but it's the responsibility of the homeowner to communicate all questions and concerns about the land, soil and vegetation.
3. Prioritize
Be clear with your landscaper about your yard priorities. Do you just need simple lawn mowing or full lawn care and maintenance? Do you expect them to dispose of all leaves and cuttings? Do you need regular hedge and tree trimming? Creating a list of priorities for your landscaper will enable you to work out a maintenance schedule and help you manage your budget.
4. Project Add-Ons
Your property is in a constant state of growth and decomposition. What looks new now may need repair at a later date. And the features used frequently now (i.e. playground for your kids) may not be needed in a few years. It's important to hire a pro that can adapt to the needs of your home. A long-term relationship means that you can change your service based on what your home truly needs and adjust as necessary
5. Research & Investigate
Looking at nearby landscaping projects on Porch.com is a great way to assess the capabilities of a professional and view average costs. Peeking over your neighbor's fence may also help you figure out what you want for your own yard. When you have your list of recommended pros, do a little research to make sure they are licensed, bonded and insured (if required by your state). Call the pros directly and ask about their typical schedule for your neighborhood and ask about specific requirements they may need (i.e. if they require an area for their truck or if they need your debris bins). If you live in a neighborhood with strict association rules it's a good idea to use a pro that has worked in your neighborhood before and can adhere to the regulations.
Here is list of Landscapers for top cities:
About Porch
Porch is the home network, free for homeowners and home professionals. With over 3.2 million professionals and over 130 million projects, Porch enables homeowners to make smart home improvement decisions by giving them the information they need to find the right professionals, get inspiration, and manage their home. The Porch App, a first of its kind app available for iOS, gives homeowners direct access to a personal Porch Concierge to help find the best professionals for your home. For more information about Porch, visit http://porch.com and to download the Porch App at http://porch.com/app
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