Except for the very high-end professional software ($1,800 to $3,500) most of what I've seen leaves a lot to be desired. Not only does one have to accomplish the learning curve (which can be frustrating) but the pictorial results that display don't look all that realistic. Everything looks like it's made out of candy and plants aren't shaped how a person would want or have them. Nevertheless, if one is willing to put in the time, they can produce a general idea of the results, which is helpful. Also, some can allow you to view spaces from virtually any angle which can help with working out layout. You might take a look at Home Designer Landscape & Deck and see if it could work for you. You could check Amazon for what's available in the non-pro category and then view demo videos of each on Youtube. You haven't said what type of landscape situations you'll be dealing with, but you could always get advice from this forum. If you seek it in the future, start by submitting well-framed and well-lit photographs.

I do but I'm not a MAC user : /

check these out: https://www.ideaspectrum.com/

Thanks for the response. I checked out Realtime Landscaping and can't figure out their pricing and use. They mention $99 for Plus and $149 for Pro with the "no monthly fees" caveat. Does that imply that the software is web base and there may some other fees for usage... or is it just a $99 or $149 one time charge... or is that per year or what? My goal is to draw (for visualization) our lot, house, outbuilding, existing trees, etc and then draw/create different layouts that minimize grass and emphasize low maintenance plant beds... plus pathways, benches, a patio or deck, planters, bird baths, and a possibly a garden pond for Koi or whatever. We will consult with our local nursery and online for best choice plant material... but already have collected some idea's from surveying other landscaping in the area. Thanks for any other suggestions or comments.