Realty.com » Resources and Services

Login • Register

Resources and Services

Consumer Guides

Hiring a Gardener

In these economically uncertain times, everyone is always looking for that really great deal. The ongoing hunt for the ideal gardener for landscape maintenance is no exception. The services offered by different gardeners vary greatly and the lowest price doesn’t always mean the best deal. Value and peace of mind, as well as price, are important factors to consider when selecting a gardener.

Interviewing

The value of a gardener is ultimately determined by the overall day to day appearance of the yard he maintains. When interviewing potential gardeners, ask what he will do for you each month (i.e.: mow, blow, prune, fertilize, etc.) Good communication is very important. Make sure you tell your gardener what services you expect to be done each month. Remember, it takes more time to provide full service than it does to just “mow and blow” each week, so expect to pay more for complete care.

Knowledge

It’s helpful if your gardener has a general knowledge of horticulture, pesticides, weed control, fertilizing and sprinkler system and timer repair. Without this knowledge and experience, mistakes are more likely to occur. Doing a little questioning at the point of hire could save some big disappointments (or disasters) down the road.

Insurance

Peace of mind is another important factor. Ask your potential gardener if he carries his own liability insurance and Workers’ Compensation insurance if he has employees. Never assume he does. Whatever happens on your property is your responsibility unless your gardener has his own insurance to fall back on. Keep in mind that this bit of “peace of mind” also adds to your gardener’s monthly cost of doing business, but it may pay for itself down the road.

Now that you have found out what he’s going to do for you each month, you are ready to ask him what he will charge. When making your decision, remember that value and peace of mind don’t come without expense. Expect to pay more for a full service gardener than for one who will fly through each week (or possibly not come at all). The saying, “you get what you pay for” certainly holds true in the maintenance field.

More Popular Entries

Additions & Remodels

Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Details Make Home Offices Work
Reinvent Your Home

Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors

Condominiums
Glossary of Real Estate Terms
House Buying Mistakes

Appliances

Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Remove Rust From Water
Tip: Cleaning Dishwasher Stains

Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers

More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Architect

Carpentry & Cabinets

Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Steel vs. Wood Framing
Reface Cabinet

Cleaning Services

Breathing Better in Your Home
Tip: Cleaning Fireplace Burns
Choosing a Maid Service

Concrete, Brick & Stone

Specialty Finishes for Concrete Patios and Other Flatwork
Installing Masonry Flatwork
Pouring Concrete Driveway or Walkway

Consumer Guides

Remodeling Increases Value
Planning Small Plumbing Installation
Window Replacement

Design Ideas

Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades
Patios for Living

Electrical, Telephone & Data

While You’re Away
Generator Repair
Illuminate Your Kitchen

Expert Advice

Window and Door Solutions
Refinishing Hardwood Flooring
Moisture Build-up on Windows

Flooring

Carpet Types
Damaged Tiles
Ceramic Tile

Handyman Services

The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Find a Handyman for Small Repairs
What Happened to the Handyman?

Heating & Cooling

Understanding Boiler Radiator Systems
Installing Central Heating
Checklist: Cold Weather Survival Tips

Home Construction

Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Timber Framed Homes
Understanding Pre-manufactured and Kit Homes

Landscape, Decks & Fences

Landscape Design
Using a Tree Stump Removal Service
Find a Garden Hose

Moving & Storage

Stowing it Away: Where to Put It
Finding a Truck Rental Service
Checklist: Hiring a Real Estate Agent

Other Services

Assessing Storm Damage
Tents for a Special Occasions
Checklist: Protect Your House from Fire

Painting & Staining

Exterior Painting
Quality Paint Jobs
Planning for House Painting

Plumbing

Install a Water Heater
Install a Solar Water Heater
How to Hire a Plumber

Quick Tips

Tip: Repair a Septic System
Checklist: Childproofing Your Home and Yard
Tip: Repair Concrete Steps

Roofing, Siding & Gutters

Ventilation is Key to How Long Your Roof Will Last
Tip: Roof Leaks
How to Buy Roofing

SP Feature Article

The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services

Walls & Ceilings

Understanding Plaster
Drywall Panels and Sheets
Drywall Installation Techniques

Windows & Doors

Window and Door Solutions
The U-factor of Thermal Replacement Windows
Security Bar Install

copyright 2008 Realty.com