Paid Estimates vs. Free Estimates: What’s the Difference and When Do You Need Each?

Green and Growing
Jun 4
3 min read

When planning a landscaping or lawn care project, most homeowners in Colorado Springs (and beyond) start by gathering a few estimates before choosing a company. Often, these estimates are offered for free—but sometimes, homeowners are surprised to learn that certain types of estimates require a fee. Understanding paid estimates vs. free estimates can help you make a smart choice for your project and avoid any surprises.

What’s an Estimate—And How Is It Different from a Quote?

Before we jump in, let’s clear up an important point: we’re talking about estimates, not quotes.

Estimates are rough approximations of a project’s cost based on preliminary information. They’re typically not detailed or binding—and they can change as the project evolves.
Quotes, on the other hand, are detailed, fixed-price agreements given when a project’s scope is fully defined. They’re often legally binding and require a signed contract.

This article focuses on estimates—specifically, when you need a free estimate vs. when a paid estimate makes sense.

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Free Estimates: When Simplicity Meets Speed

A free estimate is usually offered for straightforward, routine landscaping services that are easy to price based on square footage or linear feet. Examples include:

✅ Lawn mowing and trimming

✅ Edging and pruning

✅ Gutter cleaning

✅ Seasonal clean-ups (spring/fall)

✅ Mulching, aeration, dethatching, and seeding

Since these services have predictable costs, most landscaping companies—like Green & Growing LLC—can give you a ballpark figure quickly, often over the phone or with a simple site visit.

👉 When to Choose a Free Estimate: If you need a simple, standard service with little design work or customization, a free estimate is a great starting point.

Paid Estimates: When Projects Get Complex

A paid estimate is different. It’s provided when a project is more complex, requiring a detailed breakdown of costs, materials, labor, and sometimes even design elements.

Examples include:

✅ Walkways and patios

✅ Retaining walls

✅ Water features

✅ Drainage systems

✅ Custom landscape design

A paid estimate typically involves:

💡 A site visit to take precise measurements

💡 Soil testing or ground evaluations

💡 Sourcing materials and pricing them out

💡 Assessing design elements and potential obstacles

This process is more time-consuming and requires an expert’s attention, which is why it’s often a paid service. The fee covers the time and expertise invested—and it’s usually credited toward the project cost if you decide to move forward.

👉 When to Choose a Paid Estimate: If your project involves design, custom features, or specialized work, a paid estimate ensures you get an accurate, well-thought-out plan and budget.

Why Paid Estimates Matter—and How They Save You Money

Paid estimates might seem like an extra expense, but they can actually save you money and stress.

Here’s why:

🌱 Detailed Planning: Paid estimates allow for a thorough evaluation of your yard’s unique needs, including soil health, drainage, and plant choices.

🌱 Accurate Budgeting: With a paid estimate, you’ll get a realistic cost that includes materials, labor, and any special considerations—helping you avoid surprise expenses later.

🌱 Expert Advice: Many paid estimates include professional design input that ensures your project looks beautiful and functions well.

In many cases, landscaping companies (like us at Green & Growing LLC) credit the cost of a paid estimate toward your project, making it a smart investment in the long run.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Paid Estimate for a Backyard Oasis

Sandy is tired of her dry, patchy backyard and dreams of creating a xeriscape retreat complete with a fire pit and raised garden beds. She calls Green & Growing LLC for a paid estimate. Our team visits Sandy’s yard, measures the space, checks the soil composition, and helps her plan her dream layout—complete with a breakdown of costs for plants, rocks, and other materials. Sandy feels confident about the plan and moves forward with the project, using the estimated fee as a credit toward her landscaping investment.

Example 2: Free Estimate for a Simple Project

Later, Sandy decides she wants a small raised garden bed to grow her favorite flowers. Because this is a straightforward project with predictable costs, she calls for a free estimate. The price fits her budget, and the work is completed without any surprises.

Summary: When to Choose Free vs. Paid Estimates

Type	When to Use It	Benefits
Free Estimate	Simple, routine services	Quick, no-cost ballpark figures
Paid Estimate	Complex or custom projects	Detailed plans, accurate budgeting, design help

Ready to Plan Your Dream Yard?

At Green & Growing LLC, we’re committed to helping you choose the best option for your project—whether it’s a free estimate for lawn care or a paid estimate for a stunning landscape transformation.

🌿 Contact us today to get started!

👉 Explore our website at greenandgrowingllc.com

📱 (719) 439-4930

Green & Growing LLC