This is the question everyone wants answered but nobody wants to ask. So let’s talk about it directly.
Landscaping costs vary wildly based on what you’re doing, and anyone who gives you a price without seeing your property is making it up. But I can give you realistic ranges based on what we see here in Asheville.
Basic Landscape Refresh: $2,000 – $5,000
This is for yards that are mostly fine but need updating. Maybe you want to replace some tired shrubs, add color with perennials, refresh mulch, and clean up the beds.
We’re not changing the structure of anything. We’re just making what you have look better.
This typically includes design consultation, new plants (maybe 15-25 depending on size), professional installation, mulch, and cleanup.
Moderate Landscape Renovation: $8,000 – $15,000
Now we’re talking about actually changing your yard. This might include removing old plants, regrading problem areas, installing new beds, adding a patio or path, and planting everything from scratch.
You’re getting a significant transformation, not just a refresh. When we’re done, your yard looks completely different.
This includes design, site prep, hardscape elements like a simple patio or walkway, quality plants, irrigation if needed, and finishing touches.
Full Property Transformation: $20,000 – $40,000+
These are projects where we’re redoing front and back yards, adding substantial hardscape like large patios or retaining walls, installing drainage solutions, putting in lighting, and creating entirely new garden spaces.
This is a complete overhaul. Every aspect of your outdoor space is being redesigned and rebuilt.
At this level, you’re getting custom stonework, mature plants, sophisticated lighting systems, possibly water features, and detailed craftsmanship throughout.
What Drives Costs Up
Site conditions matter. Rocky soil that needs amending costs more than good dirt. Steep slopes require retaining walls. Poor drainage needs fixing before we can do anything else.
Material choices matter. Natural stone costs more than pavers. Mature trees cost more than saplings. Custom elements cost more than standard options.
Access matters. If we can’t get equipment back to your yard, everything takes longer and costs more.
Labor matters. Complex designs require skilled craftspeople, and that expertise costs more than basic installation.
What Drives Costs Down
Simpler designs cost less. Straight lines are easier than curves. Fewer plant varieties are simpler to install than complex mixes.
Smaller scale costs less. Focus on one area rather than the whole property.
Timing can help. We’re sometimes more flexible on pricing during slower seasons.
Your labor can reduce costs. If you’re willing to do the prep work or finishing touches, that cuts our time on site.
What You Get for Your Money
When you hire a professional landscaper, you’re paying for more than just plants and labor. You’re getting:
Design expertise so your yard actually works, not just looks pretty in the moment. We know what thrives here, what dies, and how to avoid expensive mistakes.
Proper installation that ensures things survive and thrive. There’s a right way to plant a tree, and it matters.
Quality materials that last. We have relationships with suppliers and get better plants than you’ll find at the big box store.
Efficiency. What takes you three weekends takes us two days.
Warranty and support. If something doesn’t make it, we stand behind our work.
The Real Cost of DIY
Some people want to do it themselves to save money, and that’s fine. But be honest about the real costs.
Your time has value. If you spend six weekends on a project, that’s time you’re not spending on other things.
You’ll make mistakes. We all do. But professionals make fewer of them, and the ones we make, we fix at our expense.
You probably don’t have the right tools. Renting or buying them adds up fast.
How to Get a Real Quote
Call us and schedule a site visit. We’ll look at your property, listen to what you want, and give you an honest quote based on your specific situation.
If price is a concern, tell us upfront. We can often phase a project or adjust the design to fit your budget.
Is It Worth It?
Good landscaping increases your property value, reduces your maintenance time, and makes your home more enjoyable every single day. You’re not spending money, you’re investing in your property and your quality of life.
A well-designed garden doesn’t just cost less in the long run because you’re not replacing dead plants and fixing mistakes. It also gives you years of enjoyment.
If you want a real number for your property, give us a call. We’ll come out, look at what you’ve got, and give you a straight answer.
