Real Estate Corner Q.  We’re planning to landscape the front and back yards of our home.  Do you have any suggestions?   A.  Landscaping can add an entirely new dimension to a house.  It can truly make it feel like an individualized home.  Three items you should consider when landscaping are usability, climate, and cost.         Usability encompasses the ideas of what you want from your yard.  If you enjoy dining outside, you may want to focus on a nice barbecue and dining area.  This can be accomplished at minimal expense by using bricks.  Water features are often popular landscaping additions.  They can provide a calm, refreshing atmosphere.  But they are often pricey.  Small fountains begin at $40 and can range upwards of $1,000 for a built-in waterfall.         Climate is important to consider when landscaping. Container plants offer the flexibility of moving them in or out depending on the weather. Remember to choose plants that can resist the winter cold and survive the summer heat. It’s best to use large, fiberglass, or plastic containers for your plants.  They will help you to maximize your water usage.  Clay and smaller containers allow lots of evaporation.  When planting in the ground, group compatible plants together leaving enough room for growth.  This allows you to isolate your watering needs.  Soaker hoses and drip irrigation systems are often better for your water bill than sprinklers.  For more information on plants, you can visit scotts.com.         Some other low cost landscaping ideas include using small or large rocks, brick walkways, resting benches, and shade features such as a gazebo.  Landscaping is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your home.  If you are thinking about buying or selling, and you are in need of caring, competent representation, please call me at 818-472-6855.