The Contractor Lead Generation Problem
Most contractors we talk to are paying $30-$50 per lead on Google Ads. Some are paying even more. That's insane when you can get the same quality leads for $5-$15.
The difference? Strategy.
Why Most Contractor Ads Fail
- Bidding on the wrong keywords ("plumber" vs "plumber near me")
- Sending traffic to the homepage instead of a dedicated landing page
- Not using Local Service Ads (LSAs) when available
- Ignoring negative keywords (wasting money on irrelevant clicks)
- No conversion tracking (flying blind)
The $5 Lead Formula
Step 1: Target High-Intent Keywords
Stop bidding on broad terms like "plumber." Instead, target:
- "emergency plumber [your city]"
- "plumber near me"
- "[service] [city] cost"
- "[service] [city] reviews"
These searchers are ready to hire.
Step 2: Use Local Service Ads (LSAs)
If Google offers LSAs for your trade, use them. They:
- Show at the very top with a "Google Guaranteed" badge
- Only charge you for leads (not clicks)
- Pre-screen customers
- Cost less than traditional ads
Step 3: Build Conversion-Focused Landing Pages
Your landing page needs:
- Clear headline: "Get a Free Estimate in 24 Hours"
- Phone number (clickable on mobile)
- Simple form (name, phone, service needed)
- Trust signals (reviews, certifications, years in business)
- Fast loading (under 2 seconds)
Step 4: Set Up Call Tracking
Track which keywords generate phone calls. Double down on what works, cut what doesn't.
Step 5: Retarget Website Visitors
People who visit your site but don't call are still interested. Retarget them with:
- Special offers
- Customer testimonials
- "Why Choose Us" content
Real Results from Our Clients
HVAC Contractor in Southaven:
- Before: $45 per lead
- After: $12 per lead
- 275% improvement
Roofing Company in Tupelo:
- Before: $60 per lead
- After: $18 per lead
- 233% improvement
The difference? We optimized their keywords, built proper landing pages, and set up LSAs.
The Budget Question
"How much should I spend?"
Start with $1,500-$3,000/month minimum. Below that, you won't get enough data to optimize effectively.
Scale up as you prove ROI.
Ready to Cut Your Lead Costs?
Book a free strategy call and we'll audit your current Google Ads account and show you exactly where you're wasting money.