28 proven ways for remodelers to drive leads

Lead generation is challenge No. 1A for most remodeling firms these days. Even as work picks up, homeowners have plenty of competitors to choose from, from the former homebuilder to the laid-off airline mechanic.

The good news is that leads seem to be on the upswing. In a recent survey of Professional Remodeler readers, 64 percent said that lead generation was up in the first quarter of this year compared with the same time in 2011. Only 12 percent said it had declined.

We reached out to the 83,000 readers of Professional Remodeler, as well as our social media fans and group members, to find out what is working today to drive leads, as well as the formerly reliable methods that aren’t working like they did in the past.

5 tips for past clients

Repeat business and referrals from homeowners that already know you are the lifeblood of any remodeling firm and is the best source of leads for most companies. Finding creative ways to encourage that business is important, though.

Sometimes it’s as simple as making sure past clients know you are still in business by sending out letters, emails or postcards. This can include an incentive or offer for past clients only, such as two free hours of handyman work, as suggested by one reader. Others regularly schedule follow-up calls and visits to check that past work is in good shape, which often leads to more projects that need to be completed. Many firms mentioned hosting parties or barbecues for past clients.

Many remodelers said they are offering rewards for referrals from past clients. Those rewards range from gift cards for local restaurants to credit for future work to programs that let clients earn points toward trips or cruises.