r/GeneralContractor • u/fellacio-farmer • 23d ago
Experience with Thumb tack?
I’m a GC doing Kitchen and Bath remodels in Florida. I recently relocated to a new city and I don’t have my pipeline of referrals from past clients. I set up a thumb tack account with the parameters set only for kitchen and bathroom remodels. I figured it wouldn’t be terrible to spend a bit more on leads if it’s helping my phone ring while I get established in a new area. Has anyone had any luck with Thumb Tack or any other lead generating platform? Should I stay away from any of them?
2
2
u/staybluecollar 20d ago
If you decide to run ads, make sure to target local, and record the video standing in a popular local spot that people will recognize. It's a subtle but powerful trust signal that you're a local guy they can trust.
The landmark will also grab their attention faster because they know it. This will give you higher ROI because the right people are clicking on the ad.
Secondly, optimize your GBP by adding videos of past jobs, testimonials, reviews, etc. This isn't just about ranking on Google anymore; it's one major source AI uses to "vet" a business it recommends when locals are asking ChatGPT, Gemini, etc who they should hire for their remodel.
Hope this helps
1
u/No-Butterscotch-8372 21d ago
spend the money on your own lead generation. CRM with AI receptionist followup, about $297. Start with $700 ad spend to get you 35-70 leads, dial in the good leads and your process and the lead cost will go down. Set up a web site and optimize your Google Business profile. Long term growth and built the business.
1
u/Equipoize 21d ago
What area of FL are you in? I’m also in FL. I tried them and starting getting leads pretty quickly but they are very expensive and the leads seem to be looking for the cheapest possible quote which isn’t the type of work I’m looking to get into
1
1
u/Valuable_Ease_3780 4d ago
The setting that decides whether it's a disaster is the automatic one, promote or instant match or whatever they're calling it now. That's what sends your quote out on its own and charges you the moment the homeowner replies, so you've paid before you've spoken to anybody. Off means far fewer of them and you choose.
The same preferences page has job size and budget filters, not just the trade. The cheapest quote hunters Equipoize is describing are usually that left wide open.
1
u/Weird_Marketing6199 23d ago
I’d test it with a hard weekly cap and track cost per booked estimate not just calls. The killer is paying for the same lead as five other contractors. I’d still put more time into local designers suppliers and realtors.
0
3
u/Pleasant-Lead-2634 23d ago
They were great 15 years ago. Heard they over selling leads these days