Have you ever seen those sites on the internet that offer three bids from "pre-screen" contractors ? They are everywhere - Service Magic, QualitySmith, and a few lesser know brands. Would you like a little insight into the screening process ? It's simply a credit card.....if you are willing to pay - they will list you. They are trying to recruit contractors for all 50 states for about 30 different service categories. Thats a large area and a lot of contractors. They do not have time or resources to properly qualify these contractors.
It works like this, you fill out the form, whether it be for roofing, siding, a new kitchen, fencing, etc. - They take the three closest people in their network that are signed up and offer them the leads - they cost the contractor on average $ 75.00 per lead. The company will generate $ 225 for you to fill out that inquiry form. On the other end, they offer affiliates (people with websites) anywhere from $ 7.00 to $ 25.00 to place and ad or link that people can click on to take them to an inquiry form where hope the homeowner fills out the form. Net profit: about $200.00 per lead.
You the homeowner have nothing to lose by using these services. The contractors are just like the ones you'll find listed in the newspaper or yellow pages; some good - some bad. Generally, the contractors paying for these lead services are newer, less established contractors. Just be informed and realize that they are not pre-screened and you must still do you homework and check references and insurance. In short, you'll do better to ask friends and co-workers for recommendations.
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