The Cheapest Quote Isn't Always the Best Value

We know customers compare quotes. We would too.

But when you're comparing landscaping quotes, it's important to make sure you're actually comparing the same thing.

A significantly cheaper quote doesn't automatically mean you've found the same job for a better price.

Ask what's included.

What preparation is being done? What materials are being used? What soil is being installed? How is the irrigation being designed? What is underneath the areas you can see?

Some shortcuts can save money today but create considerably more expense later.

Poor soil preparation can affect lawn and plant growth. Inadequate preparation can cause movement or deterioration. A poorly designed irrigation system can leave areas overwatered while others remain dry.

And sometimes the difference between two quotes simply comes down to the amount of time allowed to complete the work properly.

At AC Landscape Gardening & Earthworks, we don't want to win a job by removing the things we believe are necessary to achieve a quality result.

We would rather change the design or scope to suit your budget than compromise the foundations of the job.

Where We Won't Cut Corners

There are some areas where saving a few dollars simply isn't worth it.

We believe in preparing our landscapes properly from the ground up.

That means using the correct soils for roll-out lawn and garden beds, preparing areas appropriately before installation, using weed mat beneath decorative stone where required, and selecting products and materials we are comfortable putting our name behind.

Our irrigation systems are another good example.

We install quality automated irrigation solutions, including B-Hyve smart irrigation, which gives homeowners convenient control over their watering and helps their new landscape receive the water it needs.

These are often the things you can't immediately see in a finished photograph.

But they're also the things that can make a huge difference over time.

Landscaping Is an Investment in Your Home

Good landscaping isn't simply about making the yard look pretty.

It creates usable outdoor living spaces, gives children somewhere to play, improves the way you use your property and can dramatically improve the street appeal of your home.

A well-designed and professionally completed landscape can also add significant appeal and value to your property.

You've invested in the house itself.

The landscaping is what connects that house to the property and makes the whole space feel finished.

Tell Us Your Budget

We know this can be a difficult question.

When we ask what budget you have in mind during a consultation, we're not asking so we can simply spend every dollar of it.

We're asking because it helps us understand what's realistic.

If you're imagining a $40,000 landscape but hoping to spend $15,000, knowing that early allows us to have an open conversation about what can realistically be achieved for $15,000.

We can then look at priorities, alternatives or staging rather than designing and quoting something that was never going to fit the budget.

And if you genuinely have no idea what landscaping costs, that's okay too.

Tell us that.

We can talk you through the different elements of your project and help you understand where your money is likely to be spent.

Don't Be Afraid to Have the Conversation

If you've received our quote and it's higher than expected, please don't feel uncomfortable calling us.

You won't offend us by saying:

“We love it, but it's outside our budget. What can we change?”

In fact, we'd much rather have that conversation.

There may be another way to achieve what you want.

There may be elements we can remove, change or complete later.

And sometimes, after talking through what's actually involved, you may decide that the original proposal represents the best long-term value after all.

Either way, we're happy to talk it through.

Your Budget. Our Expertise. Let's Make It Work Together.

Every property is different.

Every customer's priorities are different.

And every budget is different.

Our job is to use our experience to help you get the best possible result from the budget you have available — without compromising the quality where it matters.

Thinking about landscaping your property or received an AC quote you'd like to discuss?

Give us a call. We're always happy to have a chat and explore your options.