Yard care = time and money
June 07, 2018
When looking for a home, it’s important to think of how much yard you can afford to upkeep, as well as how much time you have to maintain it on a regular basis.
Here are some things to consider:
Lawn equipment. Mowers are costly but can last many years if properly cared for. You’ll need to tune up your mower before the season begins. Factor in the cost of oil, spark plugs, filters (not to mention gas each time you mow). There may also be repair costs that may come up if you start having problems. Other equipment, such as a hedge trimmer, weed eater, leaf blower and an aerator will probably be needed to help keep your yard looking great. These things may need maintenance too!
Cost of seed and fertilizer. BE sure to consider how you are going to manage any weeds that pop up. What about pests? Some pests can cause lots of problems in your yard, however, there are plenty of cheap creative ways to combat unwanted critters.
Consider the cost of replacing any trees or bushes over time, as well as replenishing any mulched areas. Mulch fades away over time, so plan to fill in bare spots where the mulch starts to thin out. Some people do this every year, but it could possibly be stretched out a little longer depending on type of mulch and how long it lasts. You can choose shrubs that are slow growing and that do not require much maintenance. Careful planning, with help from professional landscapers or nursery workers, will help steer you in the right direction for planting things that are easy to maintain.
Do you live under a canopy of trees? Those leaves are going to cover the ground in the fall, which can be time consuming to get up. How will you dispose of the leaves? Is curbside pickup available?
Annual flowers are an optional item but can add lots of color to your landscaping. Consider the cost of replacing these flowers every year.
Everyone loves a beautifully maintained yard, but it can be more work than you sometimes think. Be sure to consider the yearly costs and add that to your budget when looking for a home.
