If you’ve ever paid top dollar for a lead that went nowhere, you’re not alone. Not all painting leads are created equal, and some platforms are better at burning through your budget than building your client base. That’s why we put together this no-fluff list of the top 10 painting lead providers for 2025. Whether you’re looking for shared leads, exclusive inquiries, or something in between, this guide will help you find the best fit for your business goals and budget.
Some of these platforms may be familiar names—like HomeAdvisor and Thumbtack—while others, like Service Direct or 99 Calls, offer newer or more specialized approaches tailored to painting pros.
You’ll find a variety of lead sources represented here:
Shared leads that go out to multiple painters at once (which can lead to a bidding war).
Exclusive leads that are sent directly to just one painter (less competition, but often higher cost).
Pay-per-click models that drive leads to your website or phone.
And even flat-rate or subscription-based options for those looking for more predictable expenses.
No matter what your goals are—whether you’re trying to grow fast or keep your local calendar full—we’ll help you sort through the options so you can pick the lead service that best fits your budget, your business style, and your ideal customer.
Let’s dive in.
Top 10 Lead Providers for Painters in 2025
To choose the right lead generation service for your business model and budget, it’s essential to understand how each vendor sources leads, their pricing structure, and the advantages and drawbacks of their offerings.
Here’s a breakdown of the vendors we’ve covered in no specific order:
1. HomeAdvisor
Cost per lead: $15 to over $100.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared among several contractors.
Lead source: Homeowners submit service requests through the HomeAdvisor or Angi websites, which are generated via online advertising and SEO tactics.
Pros:
Established platform with a large user base.
Offers a user-friendly interface.
Provides a custom profile with photos and reviews to showcase your services.
Cons:
Leads are shared, leading to competition among contractors.
Some contractors report paying for leads that don’t convert into jobs.
An additional annual membership fee of $350.
2. Angi
Cost per lead: Between $15 and $85 per lead.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared among several contractors.
Lead source: Homeowners submit service requests through the HomeAdvisor or Angi websites, which are generated via online advertising and SEO tactics.
Pros:
Established platform with a large user base.
Offers a user-friendly interface.
Provides a custom profile with photos and reviews to showcase your services.
Cons:
Leads are shared, leading to competition among contractors.
Some contractors report paying for leads that don’t convert into jobs.
An additional annual membership fee of $350.
3. Thumbtack
Cost per lead: $7 – $25 to send a quote.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared among several contractors.
Lead source: Homeowners submit detailed service requests through the Thumbtack platform.
Pros:
Provides detailed descriptions of each job or project.
A large number of homeowners send requests.
No additional or hidden costs; you only pay for each quote you send.
Cons:
High competition for quality jobs since many contractors receive the same opportunity to provide a quote.
You have to quote jobs without seeing the job site.
Your company’s contact details are not visible to potential clients, so they can’t contact you directly via your Thumbtack profile.
4. Painter Choice
Cost per lead: Approximately $35 per shared lead.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared among 1-3 contractors.
Lead source: Local advertising drives traffic to the Painter Choice website, where homeowners submit service requests.
Pros:
Small leads (e.g., one room or less) are provided for free.
Full refund for invalid leads.
No additional or hidden fees.
Cons:
Shared leads result in competition with other contractors.
Jobs often go to the lowest bid.
Does not assist in building your own online presence.
5. Networx
Cost per lead: $30 – $70 per shared lead.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared among up to 4 contractors.
Lead source: Third-party data sources and online advertising drive traffic to the Networx platform.
Pros:
Ability to set up a custom profile to showcase services.
Offers a helpful cost guide and contractor profiles for comparison.
Cons:
Shared leads lead to competition among contractors.
May need to offer lower bids to secure jobs.
6. Houzz
Cost per lead: Varies; primarily operates on an advertising model.
Lead distribution system: Not specified; depends on user interactions with profiles.
Lead source: Homeowners browse the Houzz platform for inspiration and can contact professionals directly through their profiles.
Pros:
Provides a platform to showcase portfolios and gather reviews.
Offers exposure to a large audience interested in home improvement.
Cons:
Success depends on the quality and visibility of your profile.
May require investment in advertising to increase visibility.
7. Base Coat Marketing
Cost per lead: Not specified; offers comprehensive digital marketing packages.
Lead distribution system: Exclusive leads generated through tailored marketing strategies.
Lead source: Custom websites, SEO, social media advertising, and Google Ads campaigns designed to attract potential clients.
Pros:
Provides a holistic approach to marketing, building your online presence.
Exclusive leads tailored to your business.
Cons:
Pricing is customized and may require a significant investment.
Requires active participation in marketing strategies.
8. Service Direct
Cost per lead: $15 – $75 per exclusive, inbound lead.
Lead distribution system: Exclusive leads delivered directly to your business.
Lead source: Service Direct drives traffic through online advertising and SEO, connecting potential customers directly via phone calls.
Pros:
Exclusive leads reduce competition.
Flexibility to set your own cost per lead.
Only charged for valid leads, ensuring investment is directed toward genuine opportunities
Cons:
Compared to shared lead services, the cost per lead can be higher, especially in competitive markets.
You need to regularly adjust your cost per lead and monitor campaign performance to optimize results.
9. Porch
Cost per lead: Varies based on project size and location; generally ranges from $5 to $100 per shared lead.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared among multiple contractors.
Lead source: Porch partners with major retailers like Lowe’s to funnel homeowner inquiries directly to contractors.
Pros:
Access to a broad network of homeowners through retail partnerships.
Offers a subscription-based model, providing flexibility in lead acquisition.
Cons:
Shared leads increase competition among contractors.
Lead quality and conversion rates can vary.
10. 99 Calls
Cost per lead: Exclusive painting leads cost between $6 and $29.90 per lead.
Lead distribution system: Provides exclusive leads directly to one contractor.
Lead source: Utilizes custom websites, SEO, and online advertising to attract potential clients.
Getting a steady stream of high-quality leads is the lifeblood of any landscaping business. Yet, many small business owners struggle to find consistent and affordable ways to attract customers. Relying solely on word-of-mouth or a Facebook page isn’t enough to compete in today’s market. Without a solid lead generation strategy, businesses risk slow growth and losing jobs to competitors who have mastered the art of digital marketing.
Some lead generation services promise the world but deliver low-quality leads that never convert. Others charge hefty fees without clear ROI. Additionally, some of these vendors work on a pay-per-lead or pay-per-call basis while others set up and manage the entire marketing funnel (e.g., SEO, website, etc.) for a flat monthly fee. With so many options, it’s tough to know which services actually help landscapers book more jobs.
However, we have done the legwork for you and put together a list of top lead generation services for landscaping contractors, evaluating their effectiveness, pricing, and customer satisfaction.
Figure 1: How each pay-per-lead website handles lead generation, verification, and distribution
Shared vs. Exclusive Leads
Shared leads offer affordability. Exclusive leads provide a better chance of securing jobs, ideal for new businesses or those seeking direct opportunities.
Shared leads go to multiple HVAC contractors, making competition tougher but keeping costs lower.
Exclusive leads are sold to just one contractor, eliminating competition but at a higher price. While shared leads offer affordability, exclusive leads provide a better chance of securing jobs—ideal for new businesses or those seeking direct opportunities.
What Are Verified Leads?
Verified leads are pre-screened to ensure they are genuine and interested in your services. Some vendors use detailed forms to assess intent, while others pre-qualify leads through pay-per-call or web inquiries. If leads come through direct calls, reputable vendors often record them to confirm quality and offer dispute resolutions for unqualified leads. Choosing verified leads helps you avoid wasted time and focus on real opportunities.
Below is Brief Overview of Each Lead Service Mentioned Above.
99 Calls specializes in providing exclusive, high-converting leads for HVAC contractors.
Cost per lead: $9.99 – $129.99 per exclusive lead.
Lead distribution system: Exclusive.
Lead source: 99 Calls Lead Generation System drives a contractor’s website to the top of search engine results so they can be found by high-quality prospects.
Pros:
Unlike platforms that sell the same lead to multiple businesses (e.g., Angi, Thumbtack), 99 Calls provides exclusive leads, increasing the chances of conversion.
Warm Leads – 99 Calls focuses on search engine optimization (SEO), Google Ads pay-per-click (PPC) marketing, and Local Services Ads (LSA), which means the leads are high intent and ready to book a job.
99 Calls builds and optimizes a custom lead generation website to help contractors rank higher in local search results and generate organic leads over time.
Instead of relying on form submissions only, many leads come through as live calls, increasing the chances of immediate customer engagement.
Cost per HVAC lead: $10 – $100 to send a quote. Price can vary depending on the job.
Introductory Price: Start with a 10-quote package at a 30% discount.
Lead distribution system: Shared by several contractors.
Lead source: Prospects fill out a form on the vendor’s website.
Lead Verification System: The vendor reviews each lead to make sure the request is legitimate.
Pros:
The site offers a detailed description of each job or project.
There’s a large number of homeowners sending requests to Thumbtack.
You only pay for each quote you send, there are no hidden or additional fees.
It’s possible to get good quality leads at a low cost if you have excellent reviews and a compelling description of your services on your profile.
Cons:
Your company’s contact details aren’t visible to potential clients so they can’t contact you directly via your Thumbtack profile.
Thumbtack allows homeowners to directly contact HVAC pros based on reviews and profiles. Unlike traditional lead services, this platform encourages contractors to build a strong reputation through customer feedback. Since customers choose who to message, it’s not a true “pay-per-lead” model, but it can be an effective way to generate local business.
Multiple businesses often receive the same lead, making it a race to respond first and outbid competitors.
Many users inquire out of curiosity or compare prices but never respond, leaving you paying for unqualified or dead-end leads.
Thumbtack encourages price shopping, so customers may go with the cheapest option instead of valuing expertise or long-term relationships.
Thumbtack has a history of changing its pricing structure and lead distribution model, making it harder for businesses to plan their marketing budgets effectively.
5. Yelp Ads – Boosted Visibility for Reviews-Based Leads
Yelp’s advertising platform helps businesses reach homeowners searching for HVAC services. While Yelp reviews play a significant role in winning leads, paid ads can further increase your visibility. Contractors with strong Yelp ratings tend to see the best results.
Locked into Contracts – Yelp reps may push longer-term ad contracts with cancellation fees. Always read the fine print.
Cost per HVAC lead: $30-$100 per lead.
Lead Source: Prospects submit requests to contractor’s page.
Lead Distribution: Exclusive.
Pros:
High-Intent Traffic – People on Yelp are usually ready to buy or make a decision (especially for local services, restaurants, home improvement, etc.).
Increased Visibility – Your business appears at the top of search results and competitor pages—big visibility boost, especially in competitive markets.
Location-Based Targeting – Ads are shown to people in your area, so you’re hitting a relevant audience automatically.
Pay-Per-Click Model – You only pay when someone actually clicks, not just for impressions.
Performance Tracking – Yelp provides analytics: ad clicks, customer leads, etc., so you can track ROI (though it may require some interpretation).
Enhanced Profile – With ads, you can also get upgrades like removing competitor ads from your page or adding call-to-action buttons.
Cons:
Can Be Expensive – Cost-per-click can be high, especially in saturated industries. Monthly minimums may apply even if you don’t get many leads.
Mixed ROI – Some businesses report few conversions despite lots of clicks. Clicks ≠ customers in every case.
Not Great for Every Industry – If your business isn’t review-heavy or local-service based, the audience may not be as relevant.
Fake or Negative Reviews Still Hurt – Yelp’s review filter can hide legit reviews and show questionable ones, which might impact the success of your ad campaign.
Less Control Over Ad Targeting – You can’t pick exact keywords like you can with Google Ads; Yelp automates much of the targeting.
Pricing structure: Varies based on service package.
Lead distribution system: Direct exclusive.
Lead source: The vendor develops your search engine strategy and drives prospects to a lead generation landing page, which will also be created for you.
Lead Verification System: Prospects will get in touch with you via the landing page.
Pros:
The vendor is a Google Partner with expertise in Google Adwords and Google Remarketing.
You also get custom call tracking so you can assess the ROI in your monthly report.
Custom ads and landing pages will be set up on your behalf for precise targeting, e.g., types of services or geographic area.
Cons:
The full-service approach can be more expensive than many other pay-per-lead services.
Cost per landscaping lead: Shared lead starting at $20 – $120.
Lead distribution system: Leads are shared by up to 3 contractors.
Lead source: Clients submit requests to the vendor’s system.
Lead Verification System: Leads are phone-verified.
Pros:
It’s an affordable pay-per-lead service with no contract or additional fees.
You can easily control your budget by adding funds to your account.
The mobile app allows you to purchase leads on-the-go.
The vendor offers leads for both commercial and residential jobs.
Cons:
Buying shared leads means you’d likely be competing against other landscapers.
10. Marketing360
Cost per landscaping lead: Tailored pricing plans.
Lead distribution system: Direct exclusive leads generated from your website, built using the vendor’s marketing software.
Lead source: The vendor uses online ads to drive traffic to your website.
Lead Verification System: Prospects fill out a web form on your website to request information.
Pros:
The vendor offers on-demand marketing services, such as website design and development, content creation, online advertising, and video production.
You have access to the vendor’s online lead management tool, which is part of its marketing software.
The vendor’s software allows you to manage ads on various platforms (e.g., Google, YouTube, Bing, Facebook, Instagram, etc.) all in one place.
Cons:
The full-service packages can be more costly than pay-per-lead models.
Figure 2: Price-per-lead comparison
Considerations When Choosing a Lead Generation Service:
Lead Exclusivity: Determine if leads are shared among multiple businesses or exclusive to you. Exclusive leads often result in higher conversion rates.
Lead Verification: Ensure the service verifies leads to filter out unqualified prospects, saving you time and resources.
Pricing Structure: Understand the cost per lead and any additional fees. Some services offer pay-per-lead, while others may have monthly fees.
Service Area: Confirm that the provider can generate leads within your specific geographic area.
Contract Terms: Look for flexible agreements without long-term commitments, allowing you to adjust or cancel services as needed.
Before partnering with any service, it’s advisable to research and possibly test multiple providers to determine which aligns best with your business goals and delivers the highest return on investment.
In 2010, 99 Calls launched with a simple mission – help contractors grow through effective lead generation. Fifteen years and over 1.4 million leads later, we’ve seen the home services marketing landscape transform dramatically. Through recessions, a pandemic, and constant digital upheaval, we’ve adapted and learned invaluable lessons about what truly works. In this post, we reflect on our journey and share key insights for contractors evaluating lead generation partners; real talk from a team that’s been in the trenches of local marketing since flip phones and Yellow Pages were still a thing.
A 15-Year Journey in Lead Generation
When we opened our doors in 2010, the economy was recovering from a recession, and many contractors were cautious about marketing spend. Back then, getting leads online often meant focusing on organic SEO and simple websites. 99 Calls began as a lean lead-gen service centered around boosting clients’ search rankings and inbound calls. Fast-forward to today – as we celebrate our 15th year – and we’ve evolved into a “value leader” in contractor marketing, continuously refining strategies to stay ahead of a changing market. Over the past decade, we expanded beyond SEO, embracing new channels like Google Pay-Per-Click (PPC) and Local Services Ads (LSA) as they emerged. In early 2017, we recognized the search market was getting crowded and pivoted from an SEO-only approach to incorporate Google Ads and LSA for faster, more scalable lead generation. That flexibility set the stage for the next era of growth. We also learned that generating leads is only half the battle – converting them is equally crucial. By 2023, we started helping contractors convert more leads through follow-up tools like email nurturing campaigns, database reactivation, and even missed-call text-back services, long before “automation” became a buzzword. This journey – from a small startup to a company that has delivered 1+ million leads – taught us the importance of staying nimble and never getting complacent.
Adapting Through Economic Highs and Lows
No business thrives for 15 years without weathering a few storms. For us and our clients, two big economic shake-ups come to mind: the post-2008 recession and the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. In each case, home service contractors had to adjust quickly, and so did we. During downturns, marketing budgets tighten and every dollar spent on lead generation faces extra scrutiny. Our response has been to double down on efficiency and support. For example, when COVID hit and some jobs slowed, we worked closely with contractors to refocus marketing efforts on services still in demand (like emergency repairs) and leverage low-cost outreach like email and SMS to past customers. Experience taught us that in tough times, flexibility and communication are key, whether that meant pausing campaigns without penalties, shifting ad geographies, or simply being a supportive partner on the other end of the phone. We also learned the value of having a diversified lead funnel. Contractors who combined a mix of SEO, Google Ads, and referral business could adjust more easily than those relying on a single source. By being proactive and agile, 99 Calls stayed afloat through economic turbulence and helped many clients continue to grow when others pulled back. One client told us our responsiveness during the pandemic cemented their trust in us. Customer service isn’t just a slogan; it’s a lifeline in challenging times and something we prioritize in any economic climate. These trials underscored a lesson for any contractor: choose a marketing partner who will stand by you and adapt when the going gets tough.
The Changing Digital Marketing Landscape
Perhaps the biggest shifts we’ve seen in 15 years have been within the digital marketing industry itself. In 2010, getting on Google’s first page was largely an organic game. A well-optimized website and some local directory listings could work wonders. Fast forward to 2025, and Google’s page one has become a “pay-to-play” arena. The organic section of search results keeps shrinking as Google gives more real estate to paid elements. Today, when a homeowner searches for a service, the first things they often see are Google’s “Big 4” for local businesses: Local Services Ads at the very top, traditional Google Ads (PPC) just below, the Google Maps 3-Pack (fed by your Google Business Profile), and then the organic results. That means free SEO alone is no longer enough to dominate the first page. We learned this the hard way. As mentioned, by 2017, we began shifting focus from purely SEO to include PPC and LSA because we saw Google’s direction. Google introduced Local Services Ads (Google Guaranteed) in more industries, pushing the organic listings further down. Competition online also exploded: where there might have been 5 contractors vying for page one in 2010, now there are 50, plus lead aggregators and franchises. The lesson for us and our clients was clear: to stay visible, you need a multi-pronged strategy.
So what does mastering Google’s Big 4 look like? It means optimizing your Google Business Profile (for that map pack and local reviews), investing in SEO for long-term organic traffic, running Google Ads smartly for immediate visibility, and leveraging Google LSA for pay-per-lead opportunities. Each channel has pros and cons. For instance, GBP and SEO are cost-effective but require time and expertise, while Ads and LSA can get you leads quickly but require budget and oversight. A big part of our evolution has been helping contractors navigate these options. We educate clients that being at the top of Google now often means paying to be there (at least initially), but we also work on balancing that with improving free visibility. The bottom line: the rules of online lead generation changed, and 99 Calls changed with them. Contractors evaluating lead gen partners today should ask: Are they keeping up with Google’s latest moves? Do they offer a holistic approach or just one trick? Our experience shows that an integrated strategy is no longer optional. It’s essential for maximum lead flow.
Staying Ahead of Marketing Trends
Digital marketing moves at lightning speed. What worked even two or three years ago might not work today. That’s why one of our core principles has been to stay ahead of the curve on emerging trends, and more importantly, discern which ones matter most for local contractors. In recent years, we saw trends like AI-generated content, voice search, and video marketing take center stage. For example, AI tools now help create content faster, but we learned that human oversight is still needed to ensure quality and local relevance. Voice search (through Siri, Alexa, etc.) has grown in popularity, so we advise clients to keep their online listings updated for those query types. Social media and even new platforms (who had heard of TikTok or Instagram Threads in 2010?) have opened additional avenues for branding. While not every trend is worth chasing, we make it a point to experiment and adopt innovations that can boost lead generation for our clients.
One trend that has unquestionably impacted lead generation is rising online advertising costs due to inflation and increased competition. Over the past couple of years, the cost-per-click for Google Ads has soared in many industries. We’ve monitored scenarios where, for instance, plumbing leads in North Carolina that once cost around $80 shot up to $150, and painting leads in Arizona climbed from about $70 to $110 in a year. Even a long-time window cleaning client of ours saw their average lead cost jump from roughly $36 in early 2023 to about $70 in 2024. This is a reality across the board. Your marketing dollars simply don’t stretch as far as they used to. Our takeaway? When lead costs rise, you must squeeze more value out of every click and every call. For 99 Calls, that meant focusing heavily on conversion rate optimization and exploring alternative lead sources to maintain ROI for our customers. We pride ourselves on achieving a Google Ads conversion rate of around 20%, whereas the national average hovers around 7%. In practical terms, that’s almost 3 times more leads from the same ad spend – a critical edge when budgets are under pressure. We accomplish this through rigorous campaign management, A/B testing ad creatives and landing pages, and honing in on the keywords that drive actual calls. It’s a lesson any contractor can appreciate: when marketing gets more expensive, efficiency is everything. Whether through better ad management, improved websites, or faster lead follow-up, you want a partner who is obsessed with increasing your return on investment. High conversion rates and smart optimizations aren’t just vanity metrics for us; they’re how we survived and thrived through the inflationary surge of 2022–2023. And it’s not only about paid ads – we also doubled down on organic SEO content and local optimization during this period, so clients could continue to capture free traffic even as paid traffic got costlier. By staying on top of trends and proactively adjusting strategies (rather than reacting late), we’ve kept lead pipelines flowing for our clients.
Rising Costs Inspire New Solutions
Seeing how digital marketing costs were trending, we realized that innovation wasn’t just a nice-to-have. It was a necessity. One of the most impactful solutions we embraced was broadening the sources of leads to include a business’s existing contacts, not just new prospects searching on Google. Enter database reactivation campaigns and other re-engagement tactics. The concept is simple: your past inquiries and customers are a gold mine. Maybe they contacted you once and didn’t book, or they used you before but haven’t needed you lately – reaching back out to them can generate leads at a fraction of the cost of finding brand-new customers. We proved this in practice. In our own lead-generation efforts for clients, we found that database reactivation (sending targeted texts or emails to old contacts) often produces leads far more cheaply than SEO or PPC. For example, across various services like painting and roofing, we saw reactivation leads averaging around $22–$25 each, whereas organic leads cost closer to $30–$50, and Google PPC leads were $100+ in those same industries.
We’ve helped many clients run these reactivation campaigns. One notable success story was a window cleaning franchise that sent out over 40,000 text messages to lapsed and prospective customers from their database. The results were outstanding – they received 147 positive responses (people interested in new service) at roughly $3.40 per lead when all was said and done. To put that in perspective, generating 147 brand-new leads via typical marketing channels could cost anywhere from $3,600 to $7,200 – so this campaign was an absolute bargain. Not every business has a huge contact list, but if you’ve been around for a few years, even a few hundred past contacts can turn into a handful of new jobs with minimal expense. The lesson here is that by getting creative and leveraging what you already have, you can mitigate the pain of rising ad costs. We certainly haven’t abandoned traditional lead gen (far from it), but adding these kinds of strategies gives our clients an extra cushion and a more predictable flow of opportunities. It’s something we believe any good lead generation partner should offer in 2025: innovative ways to lower your cost per lead that go beyond just tweaking Google Ads. Sometimes, the best “new” lead is one you already had in your pipeline.
Innovating with Automation and Follow-Up
Another huge area of evolution for us has been in lead response and nurturing. Generating a lead is step one; turning that lead into an actual customer is step two. Over the years, we saw far too many good leads slip away simply due to slow or missed follow-ups – not just for our clients, but across the board. Studies show that over 60% of calls to small businesses go unanswered, and only about 20% of those callers leave a voicemail. We don’t want our clients to lose 60% of their hard-earned leads because they were on a ladder or with another customer when the phone rang! So, we asked: how can technology help bridge this gap? Our answer was to roll out automation tools that ensure every lead is engaged promptly, even if the business owner is tied up.
One such tool is the “missed call text-back” feature. If a prospect calls a contractor and no one picks up, our system automatically sends a polite text message to the caller, acknowledging the call and asking how we can help. It’s simple but incredibly effective. That quick response often keeps the prospect from calling the next competitor on the list, buying you precious time to follow up. It essentially says, “Hey, we saw you called – we care about your inquiry and we’re on it.” In an era when instant gratification is expected, this has been a game changer. In fact, research (including an MIT study) shows that businesses who follow up with leads within an hour are 7 times more likely to qualify that lead, and responding within 5 minutes can boost conversion rates by up to 80%. That aligns with what we’ve observed: speed kills (in a good way) when it comes to lead conversion. Our missed-call text feature is one way we help contractors achieve near-instant response times without needing a 24/7 call center.
We’ve also integrated short-term and long-term email nurturing campaigns for leads. For instance, if a prospect fills out a form on a client’s website, they can get an immediate thank-you email and a series of follow-up emails over the next few days highlighting the company’s credentials and a prompt to schedule an appointment. If weeks or months go by and they haven’t converted, we might send a friendly reminder or a seasonal promotion down the line. The idea is to politely persist so you’re top-of-mind when the customer is ready. This addresses a common scenario: homeowners who inquire but aren’t ready to pull the trigger immediately. Most contractors, understandably, get busy and don’t continue to follow up after the first call or two. But by implementing automated yet personalized “drip” communications, we’ve seen more of those slower-burn leads turn into jobs. It’s no surprise given that email marketing still delivers a huge ROI – about $36 for every $1 spent, on average. And anecdotally, we’ve heard from our clients that customers appreciate the periodic check-ins or informative newsletters, which keep them engaged without any hard sell.
Beyond texts and emails, we’re continually exploring other automation to help our clients work smarter, not harder. One recent addition is a scheduling tool that can send a link to leads allowing them to book an appointment on the contractor’s calendar directly – a convenience that many prospects love. We also advise on integrating CRM systems or using our built-in CRM to keep track of leads, notes, and follow-ups in one place. The overarching lesson from all these efforts is the importance of response and persistence. In today’s competitive market, you can’t afford to let a single lead go cold. By investing in these tools, 99 Calls has helped clients increase their contact and close rates significantly, squeezing more revenue out of the lead volume they already have. For the contractors evaluating lead generators: ask them not just how they’ll get you leads, but how they help you convert those leads after the fact. The best partners will see it through from the first click to the booked job.
Customer-Centric Culture and Team Loyalty
Through all the industry changes and fancy new marketing tactics, one thing that has remained constant is the importance of people and relationships, both with our clients and within our own team. A big part of 99 Calls’ success, we believe, comes from an unwavering focus on being customer-centric and building a loyal, dedicated team to serve those customers. What does that mean in practice? For one, it means being responsive and accountable. We strive to treat every client, whether they’re a one-truck landscaping outfit or a multi-location franchise, with the same level of respect and attentiveness. If a contractor calls or emails us with a question or concern, our goal is to respond as quickly as possible (usually on the same day). It sounds simple, but in an industry where some lead gen companies infamously sign you up and then disappear, our hands-on approach has been a differentiator. We have clients who have been with us for 5, 10, or even the full 15 years – and they often cite our responsiveness and genuine care as reasons why. We view our relationship as a partnership, not a vendor transaction, and that mindset informs everything from how we communicate to how we set expectations.
Speaking of expectations, we learned early that honesty and clarity go a long way. If a new contractor comes to us expecting 100 leads in the first week, we don’t just say “sure thing” to close the sale. We walk them through what’s realistic, how lead volume can ramp up over time, and what factors (like budget or service area) will influence results. It’s better to under-promise and over-deliver than vice versa. This kind of expectation management has helped us build trust. Contractors know we’ll shoot straight. If something isn’t working, we’ll tell them and pivot. If something is working great, we’ll explain why and how to double down. In an industry not always known for transparency, we aim to be the honest advisor you need.
Internally, we’ve built a team that believes in these same principles. The average employee tenure at 99 Calls is over five years, which is pretty remarkable in the digital marketing world. Our team members stick around because we foster an environment of continuous learning, collaboration, and respect. That continuity means our clients often work with the same account manager or specialist for years, forming a strong working relationship. It also means our team has deep experience. They’ve “seen it all” in the lead gen game and can apply lessons from hundreds of campaigns to benefit each new client. We invest in our people with training (for example, staying up-to-date with Google’s ever-changing ad platforms and SEO best practices) and nurturing a culture where everyone is focused on helping our contractors succeed. When you partner with 99 Calls, you’re not just getting a service. You’re getting a stable team of experts who genuinely care about your business. We celebrate client wins and take to heart any setbacks. Being customer-centric also means treating customers fairly. One tangible example: we’ve always had a “no long-term contract” policy – our clients stay because they want to, not because they’re locked in.
We believe if we deliver great value, we don’t need to tie anyone down with fine print. This approach, fair pricing, and a relentless focus on lead quality have earned us an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and many positive reviews over the years. But more important than any badge or rating is the goodwill we’ve built by doing right by our customers. We’ve had instances where a client’s phone system had an issue and they missed some calls; we worked with them to get credits for those leads. We’ve accommodated pauses when life events happened. We try to put ourselves in the contractor’s shoes. After all, many of us have family or friends who are tradespeople or small business owners, and we know how hard their jobs can be.
At the end of the day, the biggest lesson we’ve learned from generating over a million leads isn’t about algorithms or analytics – it’s that people matter most. The trust between us and our clients, and the strength of the team behind the scenes, are the foundation that makes all the marketing magic happen. A lead generation partner can have the flashiest tech and the cleverest ads, but if they don’t care about your success and stick with you for the long haul, you won’t get the results you’re looking for. We’re proud that many of our earliest clients are still with us today, and that our own employees grow and thrive along with the company. It’s a virtuous cycle: a happy team leads to happy customers, which leads to long-term success for everyone.
Key Lessons Learned (and Why They Matter to You)
After 15 years in the lead generation business for local service contractors, we can boil down our experience into a few core lessons. Whether you’re considering working with 99 Calls or any marketing partner, keep these in mind:
Innovate Constantly or Get Left Behind: The marketing tactics that worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. We learned to never rest on our laurels. From new Google features to emerging social platforms, we stay curious and adaptable. For contractors: Look for a partner who is driven toward continually improving and adopting proven innovations – it means you’ll always be a step ahead of the competition.
Stay Flexible and Be Ready for Change: Economic downturns, pandemics, algorithm updates – change is inevitable. Our success came from being agile and pivoting strategies when needed, rather than clinging to one approach. For contractors: Choose a lead gen service that’s flexible in their contracts and tactics. They should tailor solutions as your business grows or market conditions shift, not a one-size-fits-all package.
Focus on Value and Efficiency: When ad costs rose, we honed in on conversion rates and alternative lead sources to keep ROI strong. It reinforced that it’s not about how many clicks you get, but how many customers you win. For contractors: Demand transparency about results and ROI. The right partner will focus on getting you the most business for the least spend, not just vanity metrics. High conversion and smart spending of your budget are crucial.
Build a Loyal, Expert Team: We’ve invested in our team and kept turnover low, which translates to better service for our clients. Experienced people simply do a better job and can be trusted advisors. For contractors: Ask who will be managing your account. A stable team that knows your industry will deliver better outcomes than a churn-and-burn operation where your rep changes every month.
Prioritize Customer Service and Trust: Perhaps our biggest strengths are treating clients like partners and being obsessed with helping them succeed. That means being responsive, honest, and going the extra mile. For contractors: In evaluating lead gen companies, talk to their clients if you can or read testimonials. Do they rave about the service and support? A company that values customer service will likely value your customers too, and work to get you quality leads and help you convert them.
Manage Expectations and Educate: We found that educated clients get more value from our services. So we spend time explaining the “why” behind strategies and setting realistic goals. For contractors: The best marketing partner is a teacher at heart. They’ll help you understand the process and set expectations so you’re never in the dark. This transparency builds trust and better long-term results.
Celebrating 15 years and 1.4 million+ leads is not just a milestone for 99 Calls – it’s a testament to the power of continual learning and putting customers first. The home services marketing space will continue to evolve, with new challenges and opportunities each year. As we look ahead, we’re excited to keep innovating, whether through leveraging the latest AI tools to boost SEO or finding creative ways to turn a single inquiry into a lifelong customer. But no matter how much changes, we’ll hold onto the core principles that got us here: be innovative, be flexible, build a great team, set clear expectations, and provide outstanding customer service. These lessons have served our clients and us well for a decade and a half. We hope our insights can help you make informed decisions as you consider how to grow your own business. Here’s to the next million leads – and more importantly, to the successes of every contractor and small business owner on the other end of those leads. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we look forward to possibly being part of yours.
“Wasting Money on Leads That Go Nowhere? You’re Not Alone.”
You answer the phone, eager for a new job, only to find out it’s another dead-end lead—someone “just shopping around” or, worse, a wrong number. Meanwhile, your competition is getting the same lead, fighting for the same job, and you’re all paying for it. Sound familiar?
If you’re a roofer, plumber, or contractor relying on lead services like Angi, you’ve likely experienced these common frustrations:
Shared leads—you and 4+ competitors racing to win the same job.
High costs—$100+ per lead & no guarantees your lead will answer your call
Low-quality leads—tire-kickers, wrong numbers, and people “just shopping”
Contracts – Many companies tie you to an annual contract
Sound familiar? You’re not the only one looking for better options. Take a look at this Top 10 list based on lead quality, pricing, and ROI. And at the top of that list? 99 Calls. Here’s why.
1. 99 Calls – Best Overall Lead Generation Service for Contractors
✅ Pay-for-performance organic leads & cost effective paid ads campaigns ✅ Direct call – Lead calls go directly to YOU ✅ Exclusive Leads! – No leads are shared! They are YOUR leads! ✅ Affordable packages starting at $99/month ✅ Specializes in everything Google – SEO, LSA, PPC & GBP management ✅ No contracts!
99 Calls focuses on local lead generation forcontractors, roofers, plumbers, electricians, cleaners, landscapers, and more. Unlike some agencies like Angi, you’re not sharing leads—each call or form submission is sent exclusively to you.
❌ Dabbling with other platforms means a lack of expertise in one
Affordable Leads
✅ Low flat rates on Organic leads; highly optimized Google Ads campaigns
❌ Costs vary and can escalate
Lead Quality Guarantee
✅ Organic leads are pay for performance
❌ Rare
Why 99 Calls Stands Out from the Competition
When it comes to generating high-quality, exclusive leads for home service contractors, 99 Calls outperforms the competition in every key area: affordability, exclusivity, and return on investment.
If you’re tired of racing against multiple contractors for the same lead or wasting money on unqualified prospects, it’s time to switch to a system that works.
✅ Exclusive Leads – Less competition means more jobs. ✅ Cost-Effective – Targeted keywords and high conversion rates lower costs. ✅ No Contracts – Stay because you want to, not because you have to.
Ready to take control of your lead generation? Try 99 Calls today and experience the difference.
Update: 3/26/2025 This technical issue has been fixed, per Google.
If you’re trying to set up your Google Business Profile (GBP) and getting stuck at the phone number entry, you’re not alone. Many business owners report being unable to proceed past this step.
🚨 The issue? A glitch is preventing users from successfully inputting or verifying their phone numbers.
📢 The good news? Google is aware of the problem and is working on a fix. In the meantime, if you’re experiencing this issue, hold off on making changes or try again later.
💡 Need urgent updates? Keep an eye on Google’s support forums or check back here for updates.
📞 If your business relies on GBP for leads, this delay can be frustrating. But rest assured, it’s not just you—help is on the way!
When it comes to generating high-quality leads for your home service business, Facebook Ads and Google Ads dominate the digital advertising space. But which one is better for your business? The answer isn’t as simple as picking one over the other. It depends on your goals, budget, and strategy.
Home service contractors like roofers, plumbers, and electricians need leads that convert into paying customers. The challenge is reaching homeowners actively looking for their services without burning through their marketing budget. Choosing the wrong ad platform could mean wasting thousands of dollars on clicks that never turn into calls.
Why Picking the Right Platform Matters
Many home service business owners jump into digital ads without a solid strategy, often swayed by flashy success stories or marketing agencies promising instant results.
Google Ads captures demand – When someone searches for “emergency plumber near me,” they’re already in need. A well-placed Google Ad can put your business right in front of that high-intent customer.
Facebook Ads builds awareness – People scrolling through Facebook aren’t actively looking for a plumber, but a well-targeted ad can make them think, “Maybe I should schedule a maintenance check.”
Don’t Treat Both Platforms The Same – Facebook and Google Ads serve different purposes, and using them incorrectly leads to wasted ad spend and low conversion rates.
Google Ads: High Intent
Google Ads, particularly Search Ads, target people who are already searching for your service. This makes them highly effective for home service businesses that rely on immediate customer action.
Best for: Emergency services (plumbers, electricians, HVAC repair), high-intent searches (“roof replacement near me”)
How it works: You bid on keywords relevant to your business. When a user searches for those terms, your ad appears at the top of Google results.
✅ Pros:
High-intent leads ready to take action
Fast results when campaigns are optimized
Pay-per-click model ensures you only pay for interested users
❌ Cons:
Competitive and expensive for certain keywords and locations
Facebook Ads allow you to target homeowners based on demographics, interests, and online behaviors. While users aren’t actively searching for your service, the right messaging can generate interest and trust over time.
Best for: Brand awareness, seasonal promotions, long-term lead nurturing
How it works: You create visually engaging ads that appear in users’ feeds, even if they’ve never searched for your services before.
✅ Pros:
Lower cost per impression compared to Google Ads
Strong audience targeting based on interests and behaviors
Great for retargeting website visitors and past customers
❌ Cons:
Leads are usually less urgent compared to Google Ads
Requires strong ad creatives and testing for success
Which One Should You Choose? (Or Should You Use Both?)
Instead of choosing one over the other, smart home service businesses use a combination of both:
Google Ads for immediate leads: Capture high-intent customers ready to book a service now.
Facebook Ads for brand-building and retargeting: Stay top-of-mind so when a customer needs your service, they remember your business first.
Use Facebook Ads to retarget people who visited your website through Google Ads but didn’t book an appointment. This keeps your business in front of warm leads without spending extra on Google’s competitive keywords.
Match Your Ads to Your Goals
If you need leads right now, Google Ads is your best bet. If you want to build long-term customer relationships and increase brand awareness, Facebook Ads can give you an edge. The most successful home service businesses use both strategically, balancing immediate bookings with long-term growth.
Ready to start generating more home service leads? Test both platforms and see which delivers the best return for your business.
Need help setting up a campaign that actually converts? Contact 99 Calls today for expert lead generation strategies tailored to your industry.
Last week, a bug caused a spike in reverifications for some Google Business Profiles. Google has identified and fixed the issue, which they’ve announced. Most affected profiles have been automatically reverified. If you still have listings stuck in reverification, contact support with a list of impacted profiles for review.
GBP suspension appeals are still taking over four weeks to process. Google just released an announcement!
Pro tip: Avoid making any changes to your profile right now—almost any update can wait. Even minor edits could trigger a suspension, leaving you stuck in the lengthy appeal process.
Dipa Gandhi of 99 Calls has achieved a tremendous milestone. She is one of only a few people in the US to achieve Platinum status as a Google Business Profile expert. It has taken her a year of active participation in the Google Help community to achieve this milestone. Last year she earned Gold status.
The Google Product Experts Program, formerly known as the Top Contributor Program, is a community initiative that recognizes and supports experienced users who assist others in Google’s Help Communities across Google’s products, such as Google Business Profile, Google Ads, YouTube, etc. This program was rebranded in October 2018 to reflect the evolving roles and contributions of members.
Program Levels and Requirements
The program comprises five levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Advancement through these levels is based on a combination of points earned and the number of recommended answers provided. Platinum Product experts have earned a minimum of 2,500 points and have provided 25 Recommended Answers. Points are earned by replying to posts by users. Additional points are earned when replies are marked as a Recommended Answer.
Perks of Being a Platinum Expert
Platinum Product Experts enjoy several exclusive benefits, including:
Access to Private Communities: Engage with other experts and Google employees in dedicated forums.
Product Updates: Receive timely information about new features and changes.
Direct Feedback Opportunities: Provide input directly to Google’s product teams.
Beta Testing: Participate in testing new features before public release.
Invitations to Events: Attend exclusive Google events and summits.
How 99 Calls’ Service Contractors Benefit from Dipa’s Expertise
Dipa is a seasoned contributor with extensive knowledge of GBP processes and best practices. She has helped countless small business owners navigate issues with their GBPs, such as:
Expert GBP Setups and Optimization: Service businesses that utilize 99 Calls for lead generation have the added benefit of having Dipa build and optimize their GBPs.
Problem Resolution: Get assistance in troubleshooting complex issues that affect online visibility, such as consolidating duplicate listings for the same location and restoring lost reviews.
Reinstatement of Suspended Profiles: Dipa has helped hundreds of small businesses with the challenging and tedious work of reinstating their GBPs after a suspension.
Up-to-date Information: The team at 99 Calls and its clients stay informed about the latest features and best practices to maintain a competitive edge.
For many businesses, the digital landscape is constantly shifting. What worked years ago—like relying solely on organic search—may not be enough to stay competitive today. Kareem Booker, the owner of A Personal Touch Professional Cleaning in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, knows this firsthand.
After nearly a decade of working with 99 Calls, Kareem had built a strong foundation through organic SEO. But over time, he noticed a decline in call volume. Leads that once flowed steadily started to slow, and he realized that relying on organic search alone wasn’t going to cut it anymore.
From Hesitant to Thriving: Kareem’s Journey with Local Service Ads
Kareem had always been cautious about trying new marketing strategies. When 99 Calls suggested Local Services Ads (LSAs) to supplement his existing efforts, he hesitated.
“For about a year we went back and forth about LSAs,” Kareem shared. “I was kind of hesitant about joining, but boy, when I did—did I tell you? It made my phone blow off the roof!”
He recalls that at first, the leads didn’t seem promising.
“The first two or three leads didn’t really pan out,” Kareem admitted. “But then, that fourth or fifth one? It was a realtor. They introduced themselves, told me exactly what they were trying to get accomplished, and my team and I executed everything.”
That one job changed the game. The realtor has continued sending Kareem work, and his phone hasn’t stopped ringing since.
But the realtor wasn’t the only big client Kareem landed through LSAs.
Leads for office cleaning and move-in/move-out cleanings rang in.
Kareem got so much work that he had to turn off his ads because he was booked solid.
“I couldn’t keep up!”
Why Kareem Recommends Local Services Ads
Despite his initial doubts, Kareem now swears by LSAs.
“I’d recommend them to anybody—as long as they’re not in my area!” Kareem laughed.
His reasons are simple:
✅ High-quality leads
✅ Better visibility
✅ Sustainable growth
“If you’re still just doing SEO, it ain’t enough,” Kareem explains. “Times are swinging in a new direction. You have to pay for a position in order to be seen online. That’s just how it works now.”
How 99 Calls Helped Kareem Keep His Business Alive
Kareem’s journey with 99 Calls isn’t just about LSAs—it’s about persistance.
“Let me tell you this,” Kareem says, leaning in, “without 99 Calls, my business would have shut down during the pandemic. There were days I was frustrated, ready to quit. But Kathy would call me every morning and say, ‘Booker, how’s everything going?’ And I’d be like, ‘Miss Cathy, this is just not working out the way I wanted.’”
Through those tough times, Kareem stuck with 99 Calls. Together, 99 Calls and Kareem tweaked strategies, got more calls, and didn’t give up.
“If it weren’t for 99 Calls, I wouldn’t have a business today.”
Advice for Business Owners Trying LSAs or SEO for the First Time
Kareem wants other business owners to know this isn’t an overnight fix—but if you stick with it, it pays off big time.
“If this is your first time trying paid online advertising, it’s going to be a rocky road at first. But if you let the process work, it’ll all come together.”
Here’s what he says to expect:
Give it time – “It took me six to twelve weeks to get all the kinks worked out.”
Trust the process – “99 Calls has to get the keywords, meta tags, and placements right to get you the best leads.”
Stay patient – “If you’re willing to put in the time, it’ll be very rewarding.”
Final Thoughts
Kareem’s story proves that with the right marketing strategy, your business can thrive. While organic SEO is still valuable, Local Service Ads provide a direct path to high-quality leads that can take a small business to the next level.
If you’re struggling to get leads or wondering if LSAs are worth it, take it from Kareem:
“Stick with it, let the process work, and it will be rewarding for you and your company.”
Want to see how 99 Calls can help your business grow? Contact us today to learn more about Local Services Ads and how we can tailor a lead generation strategy for you.
Getting leads for your painting business is not what it used to be. Leads don’t fall into your lap because you slapped a number on your truck and took out a Yellow Pages ad. With evergrowing competition, painters need to be smarter about lead generation in 2025. So, let’s break it down. What’s working? What’s a waste of time? Most importantly, how do you get more paying customers without burning through your marketing budget?
Google Business Profile (GBP) Optimization
If your Google Business Profile (GBP) isn’t optimized, you’re missing out on free leads. When homeowners search for “house painters near me,” Google favors well-optimized GBP listings.
Detailed Services List: Don’t just list “painting.” Include interior painting, exterior painting, cabinet refinishing, epoxy flooring, commercial painting, etc.
High-Quality Photos: Before-and-after pictures get clicks. Don’t use blurry, dimly lit photos from your iPhone 6.
Reviews, Reviews, Reviews: A 4.9-star rating beats a 5.0 if the first listing has 100+ reviews and the second has five.
GBP Posts: Treat it like social media—post updates, offers, and completed projects.
Local SEO
If your website isn’t ranking on Google’s first page, you’re handing leads to your competitors. Organic SEO helps keep you at the top without paying per click.
What works in 2025?
City-Specific Landing Pages: A separate page for “House Painting in Austin, TX” will outperform a generic “Our Services” page.
Blog Posts with Real Data: Example: “How Much Does House Painting Cost in [Your City]?”
Backlinks from Local Websites: Partner with realtors, home improvement blogs, and local news sites.
Google LSAs are one of the best paid lead-generation methods for painters in 2025. Why? You only pay for leads, not clicks. Unlike PPC, where someone can click and bounce, LSAs charge per actual lead.
To succeed with LSAs:
Respond FAST. If you don’t answer, Google deprioritizes your listing.
Keep your GBP optimized. LSA performance is tied to it.
Dispute bad leads. If someone calls for drywall repair, you can request a refund.
Get as many 5-star reviews as you can. This helps with your LSA ranking.
Leverage Social Proof
Homeowners trust other homeowners more than they trust you. That’s why reviews and referrals are marketing gold.
How to get more reviews:
Ask at the right time: The best time to request a review? Right after they tell you they love your work.
Make it easy: Send them a direct Google review link.
Most painting contractors ignore past leads, thinking, “If they didn’t book before, they’re not interested.” Big mistake. People forget. They may have wanted to paint six months ago but got sidetracked.
How to do it right:
Personalized emails: “Hey [First Name], still thinking about painting? We’re offering 10% off this month.”
SMS follow-ups: A simple text like “Want a fresh coat before the holidays? Let’s chat!” works wonders.
Quarterly check-ins: Every three months, send a reminder.
Final Thoughts: The 2025 Playbook for Painters
Generating painting leads in 2025 isn’t about doing one thing right—it’s about layering multiple strategies:
Optimize your Google Business Profile for free leads.
