5 min read
Where did your last lead come from? What are you doing to bring in new leads from new sources? We’ve all felt the squeeze for leads at different points in our business. Relying on traditional lead generation methods isn’t always enough to keep your project pipeline full. Homebuilders and remodelers need to think outside the box to find new opportunities and tap into valuable, often overlooked sources of home builder leads. Builder Funnel helps builders and remodelers grow through strategic digital marketing, which means we know a lot about how to find custom home leads, remodeling leads, or even specialized projects like bathroom remodeling leads.
Digital marketing, online advertising, search engine optimization, and other tactics are our bread and butter. You know we know all about those staples. Today, we’re here to talk about some lesser-known lead-generation vehicles for builders and remodelers. We don’t mind sharing a bit of the secret sauce. The magic is always in the way you make it. We want you to put your own spin on these creative strategies that have proven successful for other professionals in the construction industry. We’ll explore innovative ideas, showcase real-world examples, and give you actionable tips to generate home improvement leads immediately.
Unexpected Sources of Construction Leads
One-to-One Outreach: The Power of Personal Connections
Personal outreach is one of the fastest, most effective ways to generate immediate interest. Unlike mass email blasts or cold outreach, personalized one-to-one emails create a sense of direct communication and trust. This method works particularly well with warm audiences—those who already know your work, past clients, or those within your professional network. The key is tailoring each message to the individual, making them feel valued and more likely to respond.
Real-World Example of Effective Outreach
One of the clients we helped was a home builder in San Antonio who used this targeted email strategy to generate a high-value lead from a small list. With just one email blast to 210 people, they successfully sold a $50,599 bathroom remodeling project. This is an excellent example of how a simple, focused message can convert leads, even from a small list, into valuable opportunities.
Here’s the exact email that worked
Subject: Looking to Serve More Homeowners
NAME,
I'm reaching out because for the last few years we’ve helped transform hundreds of homes and serve some amazing individuals like yourself. However, this year I am actively looking to serve at a higher level and transform even more homes and lives. We currently have 5 openings for kitchen and bath remodels.
Do you know of anyone I should get connected with?
SIGNATURE
Why This Email Works
- Personalized Touch: It feels like a direct conversation, not a generic mass email.
- Clear Call to Action: The email subtly asks for a referral, which is less intimidating than a hard-sell approach.
- Targeted Offer: Highlighting the specific services (kitchen and bathroom remodels) helps focus the reader’s attention, making it more likely they’ll think of someone who needs those services.
Customer Referral Program: Rewarding Your Clients for Referrals
You can further leverage your network by incentivizing referrals. Your past clients are one of the most valuable sources of home remodeling leads. They’ve experienced your work firsthand and will likely recommend your services to friends and family. Set up a simple referral program where clients receive a financial reward or a discount on future services for every new client they refer. Make the commission attractive—consider offering a percentage of the project’s value or a set dollar amount. Communicate the program clearly to your past clients, and remind them after you’ve completed a project.
Partnering with Insurance Agents and Brokers
Insurance agents often deal with homeowners needing immediate repairs after disasters like fires or floods. These homeowners are highly motivated to start repairs, making insurance agents a great source of home improvement leads. This can be mutually beneficial, as you may be consulted about insuring your work. Reach out to local insurance brokers and offer to be their preferred contractor for restoration projects. In exchange, you can cross-promote their services.
Collaborating with Realtors, Architects, and Designers
Realtors, architects, and designers have clients who are often planning major renovations or custom builds. Build relationships with these professionals and offer incentives like referral fees. Realtors can send you home improvement leads from clients looking to renovate before selling, while architects and designers can refer clients in the planning stages of new builds or remodels. Likewise, your clients may be interested in purchasing a home or land and may require architectural services outside your scope.
Forums and Online Communities
Local online forums and social media groups are full of homeowners looking for advice and contractor recommendations. Being active in these communities can help you build credibility and generate home remodeling leads. Join forums and groups focused on home improvement or moving in your area. Offer helpful advice and add your website link in your signature. Engage in discussions without being overly salesy, and you’ll establish yourself as a trusted expert.
Developing Relationships with Demolition and Waste Management Companies
Demolition projects often lead to new construction or remodeling, making demolition and waste management companies a valuable source of home builder leads. Many homeowners start DIY projects and quickly realize they need professional help, creating an opportunity for contractors. Connect with local demolition and waste management companies. Offer to be their recommended contractor for projects that require professional follow-up. This allows these professionals an easy way to offer a helpful solution during a potentially emotional moment.
Leveraging Social Media and Competitor Followers
Engaging with your competitors' followers or using location-based hashtags on social media can help you connect with people already interested in home improvement leads. Social media is a low-cost way to reach potential clients in your area. You can often win business by demonstrating that you are more responsive than your competitor in real-time.
Offline Advertising: Maximize Local Visibility
You’re already in the neighborhood. Make sure everyone knows who you are and how to contact you. Offline advertising methods like truck wraps, job site signs, and direct mail put your business front and center in the neighborhoods where you're already working. This visibility can generate home remodeling leads from people who see your brand repeatedly.
The Open House: Showcasing Your Work
Hosting an open house at a recently completed project is a great way to attract custom home and remodeling leads from neighbors and visitors inspired by your work. After completing a standout project, invite the homeowner’s neighbors, friends, and family to an open house. Promote the event with signs, social media, and email. Have your team on-site to answer questions and build relationships.
Podcasts: Becoming a Thought Leader
Podcasts are an untapped opportunity in the homebuilding industry. Start a podcast focused on topics like design trends, remodeling tips, or case studies of your successful projects. This builds credibility and trust with your listeners, increasing the likelihood they’ll reach out to you when they’re ready to build.
YouTube Channel: Video Marketing for Trust and Visibility
Video marketing is one of the most engaging ways to connect with potential clients. Create a YouTube channel and post videos of completed projects, how-to guides, or client testimonials. Videos build trust and give homeowners confidence in your work. A well-optimized video can also rank in search results, bringing in steady remodeling leads over time.
Project Spotlights: Showcasing Your Best Work
Project spotlights allow you to showcase your completed projects, giving potential clients insight into your capabilities. Create project spotlight pages that feature high-quality photos, videos, and a detailed write-up of the project’s challenges and solutions. Focus on neighborhoods where you want more work, and promote these spotlights on your website and social media to drive home remodeling leads.
Retargeting Ads: Capturing Interested Visitors
Retargeting ads are a cost-effective way to re-engage visitors who have shown interest in your services but didn’t convert. By keeping your brand in front of these potential clients, you can boost your chances of turning them into home builder leads or kitchen remodel leads.
Set up retargeting campaigns on platforms like Google or Meta (Facebook/Instagram). These ads will appear to people who have visited your website, encouraging them to come back and take action.
Networking at Local Trade Shows and Home & Garden Expos
Trade shows and home expos attract homeowners actively looking for remodeling and home improvement solutions. These events provide a direct line to home improvement leads and custom home leads from people interested in hiring professionals for their next project. Set up a booth at local trade shows or expos and showcase your best projects with photos, brochures, and videos. Engage attendees by offering on-the-spot consultations or free resources, like design guides. These face-to-face interactions can quickly convert into high-quality remodeling leads.
Maximize Your Construction Lead Generation
Ready to take your lead generation to the next level? At Builder Funnel, we specialize in helping builders and remodelers grow through strategic digital marketing. Our proven methods in content marketing, SEO, and digital ads can help you consistently attract more custom home builder leads and home improvement leads.
Book a meeting with our team today, and let’s discuss how we can help you grow your business through a tailored marketing strategy.