If you are ready to transform your backyard, but don’t have the funds to do so, then it’s time to start following some smart saving tips. By starting now, you can budget and plan for the yard of your dreams. Here’s how to save for your dream backyard in 2016:

Plan the Design. Begin by planning the design for your dream backyard. Create a sketch so that you can lay out the placement of each area, such as a vegetable garden, flower beds, seating areas, open space, etc. Take measurements of your yard so that you know just how much space you have to work with.

Select the Features You Desire. Choose the features that you really want to have, such as a dining table and seating, a grill, water features, or a patio for entertaining. Do research on the approximate cost of those features so that you have a better idea of what your total cost may look like. You may find that you have to let some ideas go in order to get the design elements that are a priority. Think about how the space can most benefit your entire family and suit all of your needs over the years.

Set the Budget. Before you buy anything for the yard, settle on a budget that you know you can realistically handle. Since you will have priced the features that you want, you’ll have a clear idea of how much you need to spend. Once you know how much you can spend, then you can start to save.

Put money aside from each paycheck into a savings account that you have dedicated for the dream backyard project. Over time, you should be able to save up enough to purchase the features that you want and cover any labor costs for the work to be done.

These backyard tips will help you to create the outdoor space of your dreams. Start planning, set a budget, and be realistic about the features you want and need for a functional, stylish space. It may take some time and some discipline to save the money, but once you do, you will be able to make enjoy an amazing backyard for many years to come.