Getting steady remodeling jobs isn’t just about being good with tools it’s about being seen, trusted, and remembered. A lot of skilled contractors struggle because they don’t have a strong online presence or don’t know how to reach the right potential clients.
You could be the best in town, but if you’re not actively engaging or connecting through the right channels, you’re missing real opportunities.
Maybe you’ve tried posting on social media or handed out a few flyers in your local community, but it didn’t lead to much. The truth is, most folks don’t know where to start when it comes to building a personal brand or creating a professional website that actually brings in leads.
On top of that, delivering top-notch customer service matters just as much as your craftsmanship because a happy client brings referrals.
This guide will show you exactly how to focus your energy on offering value in ways that attract and convert. You’ll learn how to stand out online, build real-world trust, and turn casual browsers into booked clients. If you’re ready to grow your business with strategy and confidence, you’re in the right place.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Build a Strong Online Presence:
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Create a professional website:
When I first started out, I underestimated the power of a professional website—until I realized it’s not just a portfolio; it’s a silent salesperson working for you 24/7. To showcase your best work, focus on uploading high-quality photos and short videos that highlight your craftsmanship and real-world results.
Your site should clearly explain your services and reflect your expertise, so potential clients feel confident right away. Make sure there’s an easy way for them to contact you, whether it’s through a form, chat, or click-to-call button. The clearer and cleaner your site is, the more trust it builds before you’ve even spoken a word.
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Optimize for local search:
If you’re not showing up in local searches, you’re leaving money on the table. Start by making sure your website and online profiles are fully optimized for the area you serve. Use keywords related to remodeling and home improvement throughout your content and listings, and keep your contact info consistent everywhere.
I remember using a tip I picked up from WebFX just updating my Google Business profile with service areas and fresh photos boosted inquiries within days. The goal is simple: when someone nearby needs work done, your name should pop up first.
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Use social media effectively:
I’ve seen firsthand how social media can drive real business when used with purpose. Start by consistently sharing project updates, behind-the-scenes clips, or quick tips that show off your skills and keep your audience interested.
If you’re not already engaging with comments or answering questions, you’re missing a chance to build trust. I’ve also had success using targeted ads to reach homeowners in my area, especially those looking for remodeling inspiration. The goal is simple: reach the right potential clients by showing up where they’re already scrolling.
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Consider online directories and platforms:
One of the easiest ways to grow your business is by getting visible on platforms where homeowners are already searching. Create a list of top online directories like Yelp, Angie’s List (now Angi), Houzz, and Thumbtack, and make sure your profiles are complete and updated.
When I added my remodeling services to just two of these, the number of inquiries jumped almost immediately. These directories work as built-in trust signals, helping you get found by people who are actively looking for reliable pros like you.
2. Engage with Your Local Community:
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Network with other businesses:
Getting more remodeling jobs isn’t just about being online—it’s also about building real-world connections. I’ve found that when you network with nearby businesses, you open the door to referrals that feel warm and trustworthy.
Connect with local real estate agents, suppliers, and fellow contractors who can refer clients your way when projects come up. Years ago, I took advice from a piece I read on Next Insurance and reached out to a realtor after a home sale.
That small move led to three kitchen remodels in the same neighborhood. Local relationships go a long way in this business.
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Distribute flyers and business cards:
There’s still power in a good old-fashioned handout. I’ve personally landed multiple projects just by targeting recently sold homes in my area with simple flyers and business cards.
A “welcome to the neighborhood” message paired with a clear offer for helpful services like fixing common inspection items, can make your name stick before anyone else gets the chance. It’s low-tech, yes, but when done consistently and thoughtfully, this kind of personal outreach builds real connections and leads.
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Sponsor local events:
One powerful way to build your remodeling brand is to sponsor local events that bring the community together. When you’re involved in a school fundraiser, neighborhood fair, or housing expo, you’re putting your name in front of homeowners who may soon need your services.
I once offered help with a few small projects during a local clean-up day, and it led to two bathroom renovations. The key is to offer value first—show up, be seen, and let people know you’re the pro they can count on.
3. Offer Excellent Customer Service:
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Provide clear and detailed estimates:
From my experience, one of the fastest ways to earn repeat business is by giving clear estimates and detailed estimates that break down costs, timelines, and the full scope of work. Clients appreciate it when you’re upfront and take time to help them understand exactly what they’re paying for.
I picked up this habit after reading a tip on Upwork, and it changed how people responded to my bids—more trust, fewer questions, and smoother jobs from start to finish.
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Communicate effectively throughout the project:
One thing I’ve learned is that when you communicate effectively, everything else in a project flows better. Make sure your clients stay informed about progress, and don’t wait to address any concerns—handle them promptly.
Even a quick text update can build trust and reduce stress. It’s a small habit that makes a huge difference in how people feel about working with you again.
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Go the extra mile:
The easiest way to stay top-of-mind is to consistently go the extra mile. That means not just meeting client expectations, but exceeding them by delivering high-quality workmanship, providing exceptional service, and leaving behind a clean job site every time.
I read a story on Reddit once where a homeowner hired the same remodeler three times simply because of how spotless he left the space. That’s the kind of detail people remember—and recommend.
7 tips to get more contracting jobs:
1. Embrace the mindset shift
When I finally embraced the mindset shift from being just a hands-on contractor to becoming a full business owner, everything changed. To grow and get more jobs, you need more than just craftsmanship you need a strong business foundation built on understanding numbers, knowing how to break even, and generating enough leads to stay booked.
Running a profitable business means making the choice to commit fully, mastering the financial side, and using your skill not just to build homes, but to run a business that brings long-term success.
2. Ignore the “going rate”
One common mistake new contractors make is basing their prices on the so-called going rate instead of doing the math themselves. If your costs are rising, and you’re not calculating your break-even point, you’re hurting your chances of running a profitable business.
My rule of thumb has always been: if it costs you one dollar, charge at least two. That mindset helped me scale from $300K a year to over $2.7 million. Price your services to support real growth—not just to stay afloat.
3. Aim for a 50% gross profit margin
To keep your businesses healthy and ready to grow, aim for at least a 50% gross profit margin on every construction job. Too many contractors underprice their work, ending up with slim margins that barely help them sustain their operations.
Start by breaking down labor, materials, and every cost of goods involved. Whether it’s a $10,000 contractor job or smaller current jobs, you’ve got to factor in management time, work hours, and your project scope from the start.
I like to reverse engineer from my desired net profit and multiply my cost by two when I charge—which often brings me closer to a 30% gross profit, or better yet, a real profit margin that supports steady growth in any service area through smarter construction bids.
4. Position your brand while educating your audience
Smart contractors who want to land more jobs and sell at higher prices need to invest in strategic brand positioning. Instead of relying on third-party lead-generation sites to control your narrative, take charge by creating content that educates potential clients.
When I started writing articles and sharing expertise—like how much it really costs to paint a bathroom, paint a bedroom, or paint a living room I claimed multiple organic spots on Google without spending a dime on ads. These simple efforts helped me demonstrate the real costs of the services I offer, allowing me to charge what I’m worth.
By consistently making videos, answering questions, and diving into the components of the trade, I’ve been able to show value quality, earn authority, and genuinely attract clients who understand the industry and are willing to pay higher rates for trusted work.
5. Consistently market your services
If you’re a contractor running a contracting business, you can’t afford to only market your services when things get slow. Real success comes from consistently putting effort into building your brand. I’ve learned that showing up on social media, updating your website, and engaging your community keeps the leads flowing and the calendar full.
A smart marketing strategy isn’t about short bursts—it’s a long game. Post helpful content, optimize your site with SEO, wrap your vehicles with your logo, add your company name to your personal profile, and don’t underestimate what a little company swag can do.
I’ve even made strong impressions just by answering my phone with energy. Be the educator in your space and stay visible. This approach helps you consistently generate leads and spot new bidding opportunities—especially when demand is high and your marketing budget needs to work the hardest.
6. Leverage your existing customer base
One of the smartest moves I ever made was learning to leverage my existing customers. Your customer base is full of opportunity for future work—you just have to stay in touch. A quick follow-up call, a thank-you message, or even a simple check-in after a project can spark repeat business or lead to valuable referrals.
When past clients feel appreciated, they’re far more likely to hire you again for their next future project. I make it a habit to send a personalized message now and then, and over time, that built strong relationships and a solid database that continues to support my business.
It’s all about knowing how to engage and re-engage with people who already trust you because you’ve done good work.
Here are a few of my top engagement strategies for contractor marketing:
Over the years, I’ve tested plenty of engagement strategies to keep my contractor marketing strong—and some of the most effective ones are surprisingly simple. Sending a personalized video to past clients or taking a minute to thank clients can go a long way.
I also run regular email marketing and re-engagement campaigns to stay top-of-mind. A solid customer referral program helps fuel word-of-mouth marketing, and sometimes, just taking time to call clients to make sure they’re still happy with the job can lead to another project.
I’ve seen around 5% of my database convert each year from consistent touches, turning into $10,000+ projects. It’s all about selling smart, staying engaging, and following up with leads who are already familiar with your work.
Whether you’re chasing new customers or reengaging old ones, this kind of personal outreach a quick text or phone call can result in real booking jobs. Just ask the general contractor I know in Milwaukee who built serious business doing exactly that.
7. Sell like you don’t need the money
To get more jobs, you’ve got to sell with confidence, not desperation. The moment you approach sales like you’re independently wealthy, everything shifts—you start to close deals at higher margins and attract clients who actually see your value.
Many contractors make the mistake of waiting for the phone to ring like waiters, instead of being proactive. When I began using job costing to know my numbers, I could walk into a sales call and genuinely impress leads. Want to level up? Invest in sales training, try sales coaching, or even run through a few role-play exercises to improve confidence.
The truth is, people buy when they feel your belief in what you’re offering. And don’t underestimate the power of circling back—check in with an old client, say thank you, and see if they need anything. That mindset alone can turn quiet weeks into landing jobs and securing new jobs faster than you’d expect.
Disclaimer: This article offers a general overview of remodeling jobs based on publicly available information and common industry practices. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional construction, design, or financial advice. The scope, cost, and duration of any remodeling job can vary widely depending on location, materials, labor, and project complexity. Always seek guidance from qualified experts before beginning any remodeling work.