A beautifully maintained yard can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, boost property value, and create an inviting outdoor space for family and friends. Whether you’re planning a total landscape transformation or just need regular lawn care, finding the right landscaping professional is key to getting the job done right. But with so many options out there, choosing the best team for your needs can be overwhelming.

That’s where this guide comes in. By understanding what to look for and how to evaluate your options, you can confidently hire a team that delivers quality results and long-term satisfaction. Here are five essential tips to help you choose local landscapers who align with your vision, timeline, and budget.

1. Assess Your Needs and Project Scope

Before reaching out to any landscaping company, take some time to identify what you need. Are you looking for basic lawn maintenance like mowing and edging? Or do you need more complex services such as hardscaping, irrigation installation, or a complete yard redesign? Knowing exactly what you want will help you narrow down your list and ensure you’re only considering local landscapers with the appropriate experience and services.

Start by making a list of your must-haves and your nice-to-haves. Think about how you want your outdoor space to function, how much time you want to spend on upkeep, and whether your project will need ongoing support. Some companies specialize in maintenance, while others focus on design and installation.

It’s also a good idea to consider the size and complexity of your property. A small front yard makeover requires a different skill set than a multi-acre landscape renovation. Clear communication about your goals from the beginning will help ensure you find landscapers who are truly equipped to meet your needs.

2. Research and Compare Local Options

Once you’ve defined your goals, start researching landscaping companies in your area. Look for businesses that are well-established in your community and have positive reputations. Online reviews, testimonials, and neighborhood forums like Nextdoor can offer valuable insights into the reliability, professionalism, and quality of work delivered by local landscapers.

Don’t just settle for the first name that comes up in a search. Compare at least three companies to get a sense of what different landscapers offer in terms of pricing, services, and timelines. Visit their websites to review portfolios of past projects, and check whether they’re licensed, insured, and certified by professional organizations such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP).

Meeting with landscapers in person or via consultation calls is also important. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions about their process, timelines, and materials used. A good landscaping company will be transparent, communicative, and interested in understanding your vision.

Also, take note of how responsive and organized each company is during this early phase—prompt replies and clear communication are often strong indicators of how they’ll handle your project down the line. Ask for references from recent clients and take the time to reach out. Hearing firsthand about someone’s experience with a landscaper can reveal details you won’t find online. Be sure to also inquire about ongoing maintenance options if you’re interested in keeping your landscaping looking great long-term. Thorough research now can save you time, stress, and money later.

3. Ask the Right Questions Before Hiring

Interviewing prospective landscapers is a crucial step in making the right decision. Don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions about their experience, team structure, and past projects. Some key questions include:

• How long have you been operating in this area?
• Can you provide references from recent clients?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• What is your process for creating designs and executing projects?
• Who will be working on my property, and how is the team managed?
• Do you offer warranties or ongoing maintenance options?

In addition, ask about their familiarity with local plants, climate conditions, and soil types. Local landscapers with regional expertise can recommend the best materials and plantings for long-term health and appearance, which is especially helpful if you want a low-maintenance or eco-friendly design.

Trustworthy landscapers should also be able to provide a detailed written estimate, including labor, materials, and a proposed timeline. Be wary of vague or overly low estimates—they could signal hidden fees or corner-cutting.

4. Understand the Value Behind the Price

Cost is always a major factor, but the cheapest quote doesn’t always translate to the best value. When comparing prices, look closely at what each proposal includes. One company may charge more but include higher-quality materials, longer-term warranties, or better customer service.

The landscaping industry is more robust than many realize. According to Workyard.com, the U.S. landscaping services industry is enormous in 2025, with an estimated $184.1 billion in annual revenue. With such a large and growing market, it’s important to ensure you're paying for true professionalism and not just a lower upfront cost.

High-quality local landscapers will break down pricing in a way that makes sense, so you know exactly what you’re getting. They’ll also explain why certain options cost more and whether alternatives might better suit your budget. In many cases, paying slightly more upfront can lead to greater satisfaction and fewer issues later on—especially if the project involves drainage, irrigation, or structural hardscaping, where mistakes can be costly to fix.

Keep in mind that a well-executed landscaping job doesn't just enhance your curb appeal—it can also improve property value, increase usable outdoor space, and even reduce long-term maintenance costs. Transparent pricing, quality materials, and skilled workmanship are worth the investment. Remember, good landscaping is an investment in your property—and when done right, it pays off for years to come.

5. Look for a Focus on Communication and Customer Service

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of communication. Landscaping projects can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, and you’ll want to work with professionals who keep you informed and involved throughout the process. A landscaper who responds promptly, respects your input, and follows up on questions is far more likely to deliver a positive experience from start to finish.

This is especially important for larger or multi-phase projects. Reliable local landscapers will establish a clear communication plan, provide updates as work progresses, and check in regularly to ensure everything is going according to plan. They’ll also be willing to make adjustments as needed and be transparent if any unexpected challenges arise.

Customer service doesn’t end when the project is completed. The best landscapers will offer guidance on how to care for your new landscape, suggest seasonal upkeep plans, and be available for future maintenance or improvements. Their commitment to long-term client satisfaction is often what sets them apart in a crowded market.

Finding the right landscaping professional isn’t just about who offers the lowest quote or the flashiest website. It’s about choosing a team that understands your vision, communicates clearly, and has the skills and reputation to bring your outdoor space to life.

By defining your goals, researching thoroughly, asking the right questions, understanding the value behind the price, and prioritizing communication, you’ll be well-equipped to choose local landscapers who can meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Remember, a great landscape doesn’t just happen—it’s the result of thoughtful planning, skilled execution, and a trusted partnership with the right professionals. So take your time, do your homework, and invest in a landscaping team that brings beauty and functionality to your home for years to come.

Ready to transform your outdoor space with trusted professionals? Contact Abarca Landscape today to schedule a consultation and see how our expert team can bring your landscaping vision to life.