5 Affordable Marketing Strategies for General Contractors to Get More Local Projects

When you’re running a small construction business, every dollar counts. You’re likely wearing multiple hats—project manager, crew leader, and sometimes even marketer. But don’t worry: you don’t need a huge budget to attract steady leads. Here are five strategies tailored to general contractors that work in the real world.

No Time to Read? Get the takeaways.

Want more leads without spending a fortune? Here’s how:

Use your Google Business Profile to highlight past jobs and services.
Post before-and-after photos of projects like decks and remodels on social media.
Ask homeowners and clients for reviews to boost credibility.
Partner with local suppliers and subcontractors for referrals.
Sponsor a community event to make your name stand out.

1. Use Your Google Business Profile to Showcase Your Work

When a homeowner searches “bathroom remodel contractor near me,” your Google Business Profile (GBP) can be the deciding factor between getting their call or losing it to someone else. Treat it like a virtual portfolio for your best projects.

What to Include:

Detailed Descriptions: Clearly list your services like “deck building,” “home additions,” or “emergency roof repairs.”
Photos of Past Jobs: Post pictures of completed work, like a custom kitchen island or a newly poured driveway.
Service Areas: Highlight the neighborhoods, towns, or regions where you work.

Why It Works: Homeowners are more likely to call a contractor whose profile answers all their questions upfront.

How to Get It Done:

If you often get questions like “How much does a bathroom remodel cost?” or “What’s the process for building a deck?”, consider creating a resource center on your website. A simple FAQ or a few blog posts can address these queries and build trust with potential clients. For example, a blog titled “What to Expect During a Kitchen Remodel” could answer common concerns and show your expertise.

2. Post Before-and-After Photos of Your Jobs

Social media might not feel like your scene, but it’s a goldmine for showcasing what you do. Whether it’s a deck build or a bathroom remodel, people love seeing the transformation.

How to Stand Out:

Take Clean Photos: Capture progress shots and tidy up the area before snapping the “after” shot.
Tell a Story: Write a quick caption like, “This family needed more outdoor space, so we built them a custom deck in just two weeks.”
Use Local Tags: Add hashtags like #AustinContractor or tag the city you’re working in.

Why It Works: Seeing real projects builds trust and gives homeowners confidence in your skills.

Bonus Tip:

Consider using your website’s resource center to share these stories. A post like “How We Transformed a Backyard with a Custom Deck” can double as social proof and boost your SEO.

3. Ask for Reviews and Referrals After Every Job

Happy clients can help bring in more business than any ad. Reviews on Google or Yelp aren’t just nice to have; they make your business show up higher in search results.

How to Get Them:

Ask Right Away: When the final nail is hammered, ask the homeowner to leave a review.
Send a Follow-Up: Email or text a link to your review page with a thank-you note.
Encourage Referrals: Let clients know you appreciate referrals and will take good care of anyone they send your way.

Why It Works: Homeowners trust recommendations from others, whether it’s a neighbor or an online review.

Want to stand out in your local market? Let’s chat—we offer free or sliding scale marketing support.

4. Partner with Local Suppliers and Subcontractors

Building relationships with other businesses in your area can lead to a steady stream of referrals. Think of it as a win-win for everyone.

Ideas to Try:

Talk to Your Suppliers: Ask your lumberyard or tile distributor to recommend your services when customers inquire about contractors.
Team Up with Subcontractors: Electricians, plumbers, and painters often work on the same projects you do. Share referrals to grow your networks together.
Leave Business Cards: Drop them off at hardware stores or local community centers where homeowners visit.

Why It Works: Businesses that know and trust you are more likely to send leads your way.

How to Get It Done:

Collaborate with your partners to create joint content. For example, write a blog with your plumber titled “How Contractors and Plumbers Work Together for Seamless Home Renovations.” This not only strengthens your partnerships but also helps potential clients understand the value of hiring professionals who work well as a team.

5. Get Involved in Your Community

Becoming a recognizable name in your community can help build trust and attract new clients. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make an impact.

Affordable Sponsorship Ideas:

Sponsor a Little League Team: Get your logo on the jerseys and support local families.
Donate Services: Offer to build a bench for the park or repair the community center’s steps.
Show Up at Events: Host a booth at a neighborhood fair with examples of your work and free consultations.

Why It Works: People are more likely to hire a contractor they recognize as part of the community.

Expand Your Reach:

Consider writing a blog post or creating a short guide for your website about your community work. Something like “5 Ways Our Team Gives Back to [Your City]” highlights your involvement and creates an emotional connection with potential clients.

Let’s help you get noticed. Contact us for free or sliding scale options to grow your leads today.

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