As you near the installation phase of your landscape design journey, there is a lot to know ahead of time. Here are some helpful tips and pointers on ways to stay prepared before you have your first meeting with your contractor.
1️⃣ Be ready to be upfront and talk about money and budget.
Regardless of your prior experience or lack thereof, starting from a place of collaboration and trust with your contractor typically results in a better outcome. Most contractors in our vetted network are working multiple jobs all at once and aim for a 10-20% profit margin on jobs. This means that they have set pricing for elements and aren’t going to try to gauge you.
2️⃣ Print a copy of the CAD plans, planting plans, or any other images from your design that you want to focus on and discuss.
Offer to give extra copies to the contractor if they don’t have their own.
3️⃣ Take notes, make requests, or write out suggestions on the printed copies you make.
Be sure to offer to give them to the contractor, as well.
4️⃣ If possible, ensure all of the decision-makers are present at the site walk and/or are available for discussion.
This helps if the contractor has any questions, or if you want to talk some ideas through with them directly.
5️⃣ If there are multiple decision-makers in your household, be sure you compare notes in advance of your meeting.
Contractors aren’t referees, so hash out priorities and preferences in advance of your meeting.
We as a team are here to support you through your journey. Don't hesitate to be in touch with any questions, or let us know if you'd like to chat before your first meeting! You can reach us through chat or build-support@yardzen.com.