How to Start Your Own Landscaping Business

When people think of landscapers, they assume that this is a seasonal business that can only be conducted when there's no snow on the ground. But that's not the case. It's hard to keep staff if you can only pay them for 7 or 8 months of the year, so most landscaping companies also offer snow removal services, in order to keep revenues rolling all year round. If you're not afraid of hard work and you enjoy working outdoors, then a landscaping business may be a good option for you to put your entrepreneurial skills into practice. Start-Up Costs If you're just starting out, you'll need to invest in some good reliable lawn and garden equipment, hand tools, and a vehicle to haul it all. Then you'll need to find out what the going rates are for landscaping services in your area. You want to keep your rates competitive without underselling yourself in your target market. Customers Once you've decided on your prices, you need customers. A good way to attract clients is to offer a discount for first-time users of your service. Check out what your competitors are doing. Do they offer free estimates and consultations? Do they offer discounts for long-term contracts? These are good incentives to find and retain customers. Be Visible Put your business name and contact info, including website URL, on your vehicle and make sure it's easily readable. Carry printed business cards with you at all times and remember to pass them out freely. Always carry your necessary paperwork (estimate forms, contracts, etc) in your vehicle or on your laptop or mobile device, so that they're accessible upon request. Advertise in the local Yellow Pages and other business directories, local cable TV and community association newsletters. Develop Your Portfolio If you have already done landscaping for clients (or for friends and family), take pictures of your work and create a portfolio. Post these on your website and keep printed copies handy to show potential clients. Legal Forms Put together a solid customer contract form. You can purchase a ready-made Landscaping Contract template from MegaDox.com. Downloadable and easy to use, you can edit and customize the contract template to fit your exact needs. You can find the Landscaping Contract at http://www.megadox.com/d/5850.