Australians spend a great deal of time relaxing outdoors and a well landscaped yard is not only a wonderful area to enjoy but adds real value to a home.

Careful planning is the key here and all aspects of landscaping need to be considered in the overall plan.

Consider where drainage, lighting and services need to go now and in the future.

Be aware of Council’s restrictions regarding site cover — how much hard surface you are allowed as a proportion of the size of the block.

Sketch roughly where you want to locate major items and where you want to define the garden and paved areas.

Make sure drainage is well planned and sufficient to drain both surface and subsoil areas. This is particularly important on the paved areas.

Professional landscapers and designers will be able to provide you with a plan so that you can do the planting and paving yourself, or a quotation to complete the entire project. Which you choose will depend on the time you have available and your budget.

Search out 2 or 3 quotes and ask the contractors for ideas. Ask for photos of completed work and for references.

Make sure you are aware of Council restrictions and ensure all contractors are licenced and insured.