Taking that first step to a new backyard is hardest.
French hostess and patron of the arts, Marie Anne de Vichy is credited for the saying, “The distance is nothing; it is only the first step that is difficult.” How often have we found this to be true?
Going for a bike ride? Taking the first step and getting outside can seem to be a mountain. Distractions and motivation can work against you. But once you’re on the trail, it’s a great feeling and that path guides you through your journey.
What’s your hold-up?
We can often equate the false starts to what we experience with the bike ride. Distractions and motivation but, more often, it’s due to the fear of the unknown. You have no idea what is going to happen beyond taking action. I’ll include those times when we don’t know WHERE to start. Lack of information can be a very demotivating force.
A backyard renovation is no different. Not knowing where to start, not knowing the process, and wondering if you’ll have anyone to count on throughout the process is unnerving. It’s no wonder people keep putting off any kind of renovation.
I have great news, though. Keep reading to learn some of the ways you can have a better experience and prepare for that first step.
Clients, both prospective and new, have told us time and time again that their lack of motivation to start their new outdoor living space was because of a lack of good information. Whether pricing, process, or any type of guidance, they procrastinated for much longer than they should’ve. But once that journey came to an end, they were thrilled they had made the decision to get started and often regretted waiting so long to take that first step.
What is holding you up from taking the first step?
Pricing
How much is it really going to cost for your renovation? Coming up with a proper budget to realistically determine what you can afford is key. Having a true metric of how much something is going to cost is another hurdle. “Heartbreak” is just one of the words we use to describe when a client finds out that the backyard they wanted is light years out of their budget ballpark. It’s often not their fault. Lack of pricing information, not only online but from other contractors, has provided them with a false understanding of what they can afford.
Process
Even if you do start your backyard renovation journey, what will happen along the way? Will there be guidance through the process to help you make decisions and ease your mind? Your contractor should be well-equipped with up-to-date information about materials. His knowledge of the process should guide you at every step of the way. Whether it’s your questions, changes to the design, or challenges with the physical property, a good contractor will be your guide.
Inspiration
What do you see in the environment around you that gives you joy, excitement, and peace? Seeing what others have done with their own backyards is one way of finding your inspiration. Robert Molinet, owner of Sierra Landscape Management, suggests, "Look around. Pay attention when you're traveling. Nature's clues are in plain sight."
Going on a hike, taking a walk through a park, sight-seeing on vacation, or on a bike ride on a seldom-traveled trail can all surround you with the best of what nature has to offer.
Finding All of This Information
Sierra Landscape Management understands these challenges. We’ve put resources in place that are designed to educate anyone looking for their own backyard renovation.
A Buyer’s Guide outlines the general costs of items like patios, walkways, stairs, water features, fire pits, and more.
A Portfolio section with detailed information about highlighted projects as well as general photos of others is there for ideas and inspiration.
Blogs that are released every week aim to educate with personal stories, trials & tribulations, and detailed information about topics that have been asked of us by our clients. If someone wanted to know about something, there’s a really good chance they’re not the only one.
Visual storytelling can be very powerful. The Sierra YouTube channel is loaded with both educational and inspirational videos including tips, processes, finished project, and how-tos.
And when you’re ready to start your own backyard renovation project, know that Sierra Landscape Management is ready to listen to your wants, discuss what you really need, and guide you through the entire process. The quality and passion that goes into the backyard they build clearly shows, not only in the results, but in the happy comments that clients share.