The beginning of our backyard Renovation journey was initially a long one. We were conducting a lot of due diligence (probably too much) when selecting the perfect contractor to perform the work. After meeting with 15+ contractors, we decided to put the project on hold. That is until we met Alex at AV Landscaping.
Details of project - 900 square feet raised edged and top casted brushed concrete, 4 Trex accent walls, accent and bistro lighting, sprinkler rerouting, 200 Sq ft additional grass, stone rock planter bed, gas pipeline for fire pit, sail installation, etc.
The process in designing our space exactly how we wanted it felt perfectly right when we spoke about it with Alex. My experience during our due diligence with other contractors was that, either their quotes marked up every single line item or, they seemed to lack the experience or professionalism. (For the sake of this review, I'll probably just stick to comparing it to the more professional landscapers because that was the standard that we set out for this renovation).
Other contractors felt like they were making margin on the details - for example, the cost of demolition, hauling the trash to the junkyard, design, and other ancillary costs that felt standard in a backyard Renovation. When I met with Alex, he helped take our detailed but inexperienced vision and design exactly what we wanted for our backyard, in a realistic and practical manner. Once we went through that process, our quote was a fixed fee that came in well below all of these large corporate landscapers.
DESIGN - The design process itself was refreshing because other contractors quoted initial design fees of $3,000+. We were able to create a visual and draw out what we wanted to do in our backyard. In addition to that, we visited stores with Alex, either in person or on video chat to obtain samples of the material for our accent walls, approve the exact brushed concrete and concrete color look that we wanted, assess lighting fixtures, etc. Beyond that, Alex contributed a lot to aesthetics of the backyard. After quoting us the fixed fee and us agreeing to it, he gladly added gas pipeline and water drip-line for our planters.
EXECUTION - I would describe their execution as "fast-paced". Alex's team consisted of three bright and extremely hard working individuals. They were cordial, respectful, and very helpful (I ended up giving them each some take home money because they were so great). I would periodically review the progress and they would help walk me through what was done. That, and Alex was also frequently managing the project on-site. This type of project management helped complete our project in 2 weeks! I was blown away by the speed. Every time I came home or when I was working from home and looked outside, meaningful progress was being made. The guys were there 6 days a week, without fail.
CHANGE ORDERS - as the backyard began to progress, we realized the accent wall fences (see pictures) were shorter than we envisioned. We quickly realized that we could use these accent walls as privacy walls. After placing and installing all 8 ft posts, Alex realized we would need 10 ft posts to create enough privacy - he quickly made the change and the team made the adjustments without delaying the progress (and at no additional cost mind you). As the backyard continued to progress, we realize there were little things that we wanted added, including a stone planter bed, plants planted in a variety of planters, sail installation, and other various changes. For each of these changes, Alex was kind enough to just charge us materials (seriously, like - we would either buy or it or we get the home depot receipt and reimburse). This helped bring all of the finishing touches together.
COMPLETION AND MAINTENANCE - over the past couple of weeks - the crew has came by 3 more times - firstly, to finish planting our planters that came in weeks late, help installing the 200+lb fire pit, clean up some staining from wet dirt we spilled, but most importantly - all of the trash we created from unboxing ALL of our furniture (it was a lot). They made sure to come early on two separate Saturdays and make sure our backyard was ready for guests to come and visit. This is what put me over the top and why I am today writing a review. My daughter, my wife and I enjoying this summer evening outside in front of our fire pit as I write this review. We are truly so grateful for AV Landscaping. I can't wait to see what kind of equity this adds to our home when we eventually sell this property. read more