Congratulations on building your new home! At Elite Landscape Solutions, we understand that landscaping a new construction home can be an exciting yet overwhelming task for homeowners. As a professional landscaping company based in Wichita, Kansas, we’ve compiled a list of the top questions we get about landscaping for newly-built homes.
Whether you’re in the process of building or have recently completed your new home, we’re here to provide expert advice and assistance to help you plan, design, select plants, and maintain your landscape. And if you need help creating a stunning outdoor space that complements your new home, we’re here to help a full range of landscaping services, including with landscape design, installation and maintenance.
Budgeting and Costs
How much should I realistically budget for landscaping a newly-built home?
Landscaping is an investment that increases your home’s value and creates an enjoyable space for years to come. A good starting point for landscaping a new home is budgeting 5-10% of the home’s value. However, the final cost will depend on factors like yard size, the complexity of your design, and your choice of materials. Larger yards and complex designs with features like patios or water elements may cost more, while smaller yards may cost less.
A professional landscaper can help you create a beautiful outdoor space within your budget. Your landscaping contractor will assess your property, develop a landscape design and then give you an accurate cost estimate.
What are the potential hidden costs?
Landscaping a new home can have unexpected costs that surprise homeowners. For example your property may need grading or excavation to improve drainage or accommodate your design. And Kansas’s variable soil conditions could require remediation, especially with the clay soils here in the Wichita area.
Working with a landscape contractor helps you minimize unplanned expenses so you can stay on budget and ensure your landscaping job runs smoothly. They’ll evaluate your entire project and factor in things like irrigation, grading, and soil quality so you get an accurate cost breakdown.
When buying a new home, what’s typically included in “builder landscaping”?
Builders may include basic landscaping with a new home, such as grading for drainage and sometimes sod. However, the extent of what’s covered varies wildly. That’s why it’s important to clarify exactly what your builder’s “landscaping package” includes. This lets you plan for additional elements you might want, whether you do them yourself or hire a professional landscaper.
Planning
When is the best time to start planning the landscaping for a new construction home?
Ideally, you should begin planning your landscaping project during the early stages of home construction. This will allow the landscaper to get started as soon as it’s feasible after you’ve closed on your new home. If you’re going the DIY landscaping route, planning ahead will give you time to research and budget, and to break up your project into phases if needed.
Should I wait to landscape, and if so, how long?
The short answer is, it depends. Ideally, the property is graded early in the construction process, after the foundation has cured, with a second finish grading when construction is completed. In this case, the soil will have time to settle before you close on your new home so you should be able to start landscaping soon after moving in. However, if your property is just graded once at the end of construction, it’s wise to wait a bit before starting your landscaping project so the soil can settle. This will ensure your landscaping thrives and and your new lawn will be level.
Do I need to worry about HOA restrictions?
Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) often have landscaping rules that dictate what you can and can’t do on your property. This could include the types of plants allowed, fence height limitations, and other potential design constraints. When building a new home, it’s a good idea to understand these HOA restrictions upfront. By planning your landscaping in line with HOA rules, you’ll avoid conflict and create an outdoor space that both fulfills your vision and meets community standards.
Design and Plant Choices
What are the essential elements to consider when landscaping a new construction home?
New home landscape designs often include elements like flower beds, retaining walls, trees and, of course, sod or seed. Additionally, it is crucial to consider irrigation and drainage, as these factors will influence the health and longevity of your landscaping.
How do I design my landscape for privacy?
If a privacy fence isn’t an option, landscape features like strategically-placed hedges or fast-growing trees can add privacy to a new yard.
Should I plant trees? If so, where?
If you build a home in a new home subdivision, chances are your lot won’t have any trees. Planting trees can add beauty and shade to your property. When deciding where to plant a tree, think about which parts of your yard you’d like to be shaded. Consider the size the tree will reach at maturity to make sure it’s placed far enough from your house, fence and neighboring homes. Additionally, make sure to avoid overhead power lines.
How do I decide which plants to choose?
Incorporating trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses will add depth and texture to your outdoor space while providing a habitat for local wildlife. Look for plants that will add year-round interest and color to your landscape. When choosing the right plants for your Wichita landscape, opt for native plants, grasses and trees when possible. These varieties are usually more drought-tolerant and can withstand the hot, dry Midwest summers. This will help save money on your water bills and protect your beautiful landscaping.
How do I maximize curb appeal?
Boost your new home’s curb appeal by focusing on a few key areas. Start with your entryway, adding colorful landscaping to create a welcoming first impression. Next, add foundation plantings that complement your home’s style, giving it depth and visual interest. Finally, use accent plants or trees (ideally Kansas natives like ornamental grasses or Redbuds) to create focal points throughout your yard. These strategies will make your Wichita home stand out with beautiful curb appeal.
What landscaping elements should I include to make my backyard enjoyable?
When choosing landscaping elements for your new home’s backyard, consider how you’ll use the space. A patio, fire pit and landscape lighting will create an inviting space for evening gatherings. If you have children and pets, consider space for a play area and grasses that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Planning a garden? Add it to your irrigation plan so you can easily water your crops as needed. A professional landscape designer like Elite Landscape Solutions can transform your blank canvas of a backyard into a beautiful, functional masterpiece.
What About Maintenance?
Maintaining landscaping can require regular care and attention, from mowing the lawn, pruning shrubs and watering plants to fertilizing and controlling weeds. Be sure to consider your time and skill level when planning your landscape design. A professional landscaping company can design a low-maintenance landscape that will look great without a lot of work, or provide you with a lawn care plan so they take care of all the work for you. At the very least, invest in a well-designed sprinkler system to efficiently water your landscape and minimize water waste.
Hiring a Landscape Contractor
Should I hire a landscape contractor to handle my new home’s landscaping?
Deciding whether to hire a landscape contractor for your new home is a big choice. Consider your own limits when it comes to time, landscaping knowledge, physical ability, and the heavy equipment needed. A professional landscaper brings expertise, experience and a crew to execute your vision quickly and efficiently. They can suggest ideal plants for Kansas, create cohesive designs, and handle tasks like grading or hardscaping that might otherwise overwhelm a homeowner. While there’s a cost involved, the peace of mind and potential increase in home value may make hiring a landscaper a worthwhile investment.
Looking for a Reliable New Home Landscaping Company in Wichita?
Landscaping a new home requires careful planning, thoughtful plant selection, and diligent maintenance. The expert team at Elite Landscape Solutions is here to create a stunning landscape around your new Wichita-area home. Count on us for professional guidance, dependable services, and tailored solutions to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your new home landscaping.