What to Expect When Hiring a Landscaping Service for the First Time

Thinking about hiring a landscaping service for the first time? You're in the right place. As seasoned content strategists, we’ve worked with countless home service professionals—and we know exactly what homeowners should expect when they’re new to the landscaping process.

Whether you're planning a major backyard transformation or simply looking to enhance your curb appeal, this guide will walk you through what it's really like to work with a professional landscaping service. We’ve created this as the go-to landscapers guide for anyone preparing for their first time landscaping project.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
   
2. Why First-Time Homeowners Should Consider Professional Landscaping
   
3. Initial Consultation: What You Can Expect
   
4. Planning & Design Phase Explained
   
5. Budgeting and Cost Transparency
   
6. How to Choose the Right Landscaping Partner
   
7. What Happens Before the Work Begins
   
8. Timeline: From Start to Finish
   
9. Communication Best Practices
   
10. Project Completion and Final Walkthrough
    
11. Post-Landscaping Maintenance Tips
    
12. Final Thoughts & How to Get Started
    
    

Key Takeaways

• Get a clear understanding of the full first time landscaping experience—from planning to execution.
  
• Learn what to expect from a landscaping service before, during, and after the project.
  
• Use this landscapers guide to ask the right questions, avoid surprises, and make confident decisions.

Why First-Time Homeowners Should Consider Professional Landscaping

When we talk to clients who’ve never worked with a landscaping service before, we often hear the same concerns:

“What if the end result doesn’t match my vision?”
“How much will it cost?”
“Will the project drag on for weeks?”

These are valid questions. The truth is, hiring a pro is about more than just adding shrubs or laying sod—it’s about unlocking the full potential of your outdoor space. A well-planned landscape increases property value, improves functionality, and creates an environment that you and your family can enjoy for years.

And when it’s your first time landscaping, a professional ensures every decision—down to the placement of the smallest stone—is intentional and informed.

Initial Consultation: What You Can Expect

The process usually starts with an on-site consultation. This isn’t just a sales pitch—it’s a discovery session where the landscaping service learns about your vision, your property’s challenges, and your goals.

Here’s what typically happens during the first meeting:

• We walk the property with you and take measurements.
  
  
• You describe what you want (or don't want).
  
  
• We assess soil conditions, drainage, sunlight, and grading.
  
  
• You’ll receive early-stage input about what’s possible.
  
  

Pro tip: Ask your landscaper if they provide design mockups or 3D visualizations. That can be especially helpful during your first time landscaping.

Planning & Design Phase Explained

Once the consultation is complete, we move into the planning and design phase. This is where ideas start to take shape. As professionals, we approach this part strategically:

• We create scaled drawings or digital plans.
  
  
• Choose plant species that thrive in your local climate.
  
  
• Consider hardscape elements (walkways, patios, retaining walls).
  
  
• Identify any permitting requirements.
  
  

This is also the point where we align design goals with your budget. And we always recommend allowing a 10–15% cushion for unexpected adjustments.

Budgeting and Cost Transparency

Let’s be honest—budgeting is where things get real. For first time landscaping clients, pricing can feel like a mystery. That’s why we prioritize transparency.

When we provide an estimate, it includes:

• Detailed cost breakdown (labor, materials, disposal, etc.)
  
  
• Timeline with estimated start and end dates
  
  
• Payment schedule (often split into milestones)
  
  

A quality landscaping service will never rush this part. We believe in explaining every line item so our clients feel in control—not confused.

How to Choose the Right Landscaping Partner

With so many landscapers out there, how do you choose the right one? Based on years of industry insight, here are our top tips:

• Look for companies with verified experience and a strong portfolio.
  
  
• Read reviews—especially those from first time landscaping clients.
  
  
• Ask about licensing and insurance.
  
  
• Choose someone who listens and communicates clearly.
  
  

We always tell clients: Don’t just hire someone because they’re available. Hire them because they understand your vision and are capable of bringing it to life

What Happens Before the Work Begins

Before we break ground, several things happen behind the scenes:

• Materials are sourced and scheduled for delivery.
  
  
• Permits (if needed) are filed.
  
  
• You’ll receive a prep checklist—things like clearing the space, relocating garden furniture, and discussing property access.
  
  

This stage sets the tone for everything that follows. As professionals, we make sure no detail is left to chance.

Timeline: From Start to Finish

Every project timeline varies based on scope, weather, and complexity. A small residential makeover might take a few days, while a full-scale design with hardscaping could stretch several weeks.

We set realistic expectations with a start-to-finish schedule and update you if anything changes. This level of communication is key—especially for first time landscaping clients who may be unfamiliar with construction timelines.

Communication Best Practices

Open communication builds trust. As a seasoned landscaping service, we make it a priority to:

• Provide regular updates (often weekly).
  
  
• Assign a single point of contact for clarity.
  
  
• Use visual progress reports or walk-throughs.
  
  

If it’s your first time working with landscapers, don’t hesitate to ask questions. A professional team will welcome your input and keep you in the loop.

Project Completion and Final Walkthrough

When we reach the finish line, we conduct a final walkthrough with you. This is your chance to review the work and ensure it meets your expectations.

During this stage, we:

• Walk you through care instructions for plants and materials.
  
  
• Provide maintenance tips to keep your space looking sharp.
  
  
• Review warranties or guarantees.
  
  

We want every client—especially those experiencing their first time landscaping—to feel confident and proud of their new outdoor space.

Post-Landscaping Maintenance Tips

After completion, maintaining your new landscape is crucial. Even the best design won’t thrive without upkeep.

Here’s what we typically recommend:

• Water new plants consistently for the first 4–6 weeks.
  
  
• Schedule seasonal clean-ups or mulching.
  
  
• Prune and fertilize as recommended for your plant types.
  
  

Many clients choose to continue working with their landscaping service on a maintenance plan, ensuring their investment is protected over time.

Final Thoughts & How to Get Started

Hiring a landscaping service for the first time doesn't have to be stressful—it should be exciting. With the right team, clear communication, and a shared vision, your yard can be transformed into something truly special.

At Two Brothers Lawn and Snow, LLC, we’ve helped countless homeowners just like you experience the joy of a well-designed and expertly executed landscape. Whether you're ready for a consultation or just exploring ideas, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today through phone at 406-369-4114. You can also reach out via our support form at support@twobrotherslawnandsnow.com.

Let’s create something beautiful—together.

Frequently Asked Questions