Whether you are planning to build a deck or redesign your landscaping, you should be aware that these kinds of projects will usually cost you big money. Before you start the project, write down the detail plans on a peice of paper: what is the goal, what is the budget, the time span, the materials and costs, the tools and costs. Here are a few tips that will help you to save some money.

1.Do It Yourself
For most small projects, such as replacing the faucets or painting the fense, labor costs would be the biggest the portion. You should consider to do it yourself. There is no need to spend a dime on buying how-to books, because you should be able to find plenty of information online. Try to seach the Youtube for how-to videos, such as “how to replace a outdoor faucet”. The video will guide you through the process step by step.

2.Hire Professionals
DIY is not always cheaper, especially on some bigger projects, such as buiding a deck, for a few reasons: professionals or companies can get wholesale prices on material while you can’t, they have tools and accessories in hand while you probably don’t. Before you start a new project, always consult with a few companies and get free quotes from them. Compare their prices with the costs if you want to do it yourself.

3.Rent Tools
For tools you don’t use very often, you can rent them from companies like Home Depot or Lowes. Power tools can sometimes cost you a few thousands dollars! Renting them can definitely save you a lot of money.

4.Referals from Your Friends
When you ask your friends for a referal, you will usually get a cash discount. It could be $50, $100, or even $500, depending on the size of your project. Just mention your friend’s name and ask for discount directly. Even if you don’t have a referal, just tell them you heard the name from your friend’s friend, and ask for discount any way.

5.Always Bargain
When you get a price quote, always bargain to get a lower price. There are many reasons for a discount, eg: you are a senior, you are single, you have three kids, you just lost your job, you had a lower quote from other company. Just ask for it, you should able to get some discount.

6.Buy Parts Online
No matter you decided to do it yourself or hire professionals, always buy parts online. If you are not sure what to buy, go to a Home Depot or Lowes store, find the parts and buy them online. Download a iPhone App RedLaser for free. Use it to take a picture of the barcode and it will compare the prices online! For example, if need plumbing supplies, always checkout PlumberSurplus.com – their prices are usually lowest!

7.Get A Warranty
After the project finished, don’t forget to ask for a warranty. For small project you should at least get a 60-days warranty, while a bigger project should come with at least a one year warranty.