I'm currently managing an elderly relative's property that has an acre of land featuring a barn, a pasture, and front and back yards that are in pretty rough shape. There are Douglas Fir trees, invasive blackberry bushes, and the yard is completely overrun with weeds. To top it off, two fences have been damaged by previous landscapers. The property also has a septic tank with a drain field and breathers that I need to keep in mind. I need to assess the barn for potential structural issues and clean the barn roof as well. I'm quite lost on where to begin this landscaping project. I want to hire a professional for this job since I am willing to invest some money, but I'm unsure which type of professional would be best suited for these specific needs, particularly in our rural area. I've tried asking in neighborhood communities for recommendations, but mostly just get responses like 'I have a digger, when can I come by?' What I really need is someone who is insured and experienced. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
1 Answer
First, you'll want to think about what your end goals are for the property. If you just need it mowed down, any local with a brush hog can handle that. But since you're dealing with a lot of overgrowth, an invasive weed issue, and a barn, you probably need a professional who can plan for more than just a quick fix.

That makes sense! The weeds and blackberries are really overwhelming. I’ve heard about ways to restore a property so that it becomes self-sustaining, but there’s definitely a lot to consider here.