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COST COMPARISON: DIY VS. PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Maintaining your yard yourself can save money upfront—but it also demands time, equipment, and know‑how. Hiring a professional ensures expertise and convenience but comes with service fees. In this guide, we break down the true costs of DIY property maintenance versus professional care—so you can choose the best option for your budget, schedule, and lawn health.

DIY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
DIY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Equipment investment – mower, trimmer, edger, spreader, sprayer: $800–$1,500 in year one.
Material costs – fertilizer, seed, mulch, herbicides, fuel: average $50–$75 per month.
Time commitment – 4–6 hours per week during peak season, plus seasonal deep‑clean days.
Learning curve & risk – improper mowing height, uneven fertilizer application, or incorrect herbicide use can damage turf and plants.

PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Service fees – typical plans range $150–$300 per month for bi‑weekly care, depending on yard size and scope.
Included materials – fertilizer, pre‑emergent, and routine bed care often bundled at no extra charge.
Expert efficiency – crews handle mowing, edging, pruning, and clean‑ups in 1–2 hours.
Quality assurance – licensed and insured technicians diagnose issues (pests, irrigation) and apply best practices for lasting results.

HEAD‑TO‑HEAD COST BREAKDOWN (ANNUAL)
HEAD‑TO‑HEAD COST BREAKDOWN (ANNUAL)

DIY:

  • Equipment depreciation: $300–$500
  • Materials & fuel: $600–$900
  • Total out‑of‑pocket: $900–$1,400 + 200 hours of labor

Professional:

  • Service plan (bi‑weekly): $1,800–$3,600
  • No equipment or material purchases
  • Total out‑of‑pocket: $1,800–$3,600 + minimal homeowner involvement
FACTORS TO CONSIDER
FACTORS TO CONSIDER

Yard complexity – slopes, beds, trees, and irrigation increase DIY difficulty and tool needs.
Personal schedule – evenings and weekends spent working vs. free time.
Long‑term value – consistent professional care can prevent costly repairs (irrigation leaks, disease outbreaks).
Satisfaction guarantee – professionals back their work; most DIY mistakes aren’t covered by warranties.

EXPERT PRO TIPS
EXPERT PRO TIPS
  • Calculate your “hourly rate” – divide your DIY upkeep hours by equipment and material costs to see true value.
  • Bundle services – package mowing, pruning, and pre‑emergent treatments to reduce per‑visit fees.
  • Shop for quality – if DIY, invest in sharp blades and slow‑release fertilizers to minimize repeat work.
  • Monitor performance – track your lawn’s appearance and health after each method to compare results.
WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL

If you value your free time, lack specialized equipment, or want guaranteed results, AllStarr Rands Landscaping offers custom maintenance plans across Deltona, Sanford, Lake Mary, and all of Volusia & Seminole Counties—starting at $150/month.

Call now for a free design consultation: (407) 627‑9203

Or email: allstarrrandsllc@gmail.com

Make the smart choice for your yard—and your time!

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