Holy crap...I just made money off of a leads website!

by TheCG
59 replies
I have been doing offline stuff for a couple of years now. Primarily simple websites for small businesses with some FaceBook and Google + thrown in the mix. Nothing to write home about but it has provided a livable income.

Several months ago I bought some WSO on building lead sites that sounded easy enough so I decided to build 3 for my medium sized city (175k population) and see what happened.

I bought 3 domains with generic sounding business names like SuperiorCarpetCleaning.com, SuperiorPlumbingServices.com & SuperiorAutoTowing.com. Not the actual names I bought by the way.

Then a bought 3 local phone numbers from CallFire and used them for tracking calls received, forwarding the calls to Google Voice numbers with prerecorded messages for callers.

I built the sites with WordPress free themes, tricked them out with generic business photos and keywords, made videos and uploaded to YouTube using the keywords and photos and threw a couple of Fiverr backlinking gigs at them. That is it. Spent about $75 total on all 3.

I monitored them for a while and started getting a few calls here and there but nothing big. Then a few months ago one of them exploded and started getting 20 - 30 calls a month...each month. I figured now was the time to try and sell some leads but I always put it off thinking they would be hard to sell.

This past Wednesday I finally decided to make some calls. I called 3 companies in the niche that was doing so well and got answering machines for all...July 4th holiday.

Anyway, all 3 called me back and all 3 wanted the leads but the one with the credit card in his hand got them.

Guess they weren't such a hard sell after all.

I am selling these leads for $12 each with a deposit held back for 20 up front. $240 in the bank and looking at $240 - $360 per month in almost passive income. I say almost because you know I am going to start giving those videos and websites a little love now after ignoring them for the past few months.
#crapi #holy #leads #made #money #website
  • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
    Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

    I have been doing offline stuff for a couple of years now. Primarily simple websites for small businesses with some FaceBook and Google + thrown in the mix. Nothing to write home about but it has provided a livable income.

    Several months ago I bought some WSO on building lead sites that sounded easy enough so I decided to build 3 for my medium sized city (175k population) and see what happened.

    I bought 3 domains with generic sounding business names like SuperiorCarpetCleaning.com, SuperiorPlumbingServices.com & SuperiorAutoTowing.com. Not the actual names I bought by the way.

    Then a bought 3 local phone numbers from CallFire and used them for tracking calls received, forwarding the calls to Google Voice numbers with prerecorded messages for callers.

    I built the sites with WordPress free themes, tricked them out with generic business photos and keywords, made videos and uploaded to YouTube using the keywords and photos and threw a couple of Fiverr backlinking gigs at them. That is it. Spent about $75 total on all 3.

    I monitored them for a while and started getting a few calls here and there but nothing big. Then a few months ago one of them exploded and started getting 20 - 30 calls a month...each month. I figured now was the time to try and sell some leads but I always put it off thinking they would be hard to sell.

    This past Wednesday I finally decided to make some calls. I called 3 companies in the niche that was doing so well and got answering machines for all...July 4th holiday.

    Anyway, all 3 called me back and all 3 wanted the leads but the one with the credit card in his hand got them.

    Guess they weren't such a hard sell after all.

    I am selling these leads for $12 each with a deposit held back for 20 up front. $240 in the bank and looking at $240 - $360 per month in almost passive income. I say almost because you know I am going to start giving those videos and websites a little love now after ignoring them for the past few months.
    Awesome job. Instead of selling the leads directly, have you thought about renting out the website? $240-$360 for exact value of the volume of leads seems like a lot of work when you could just rent it out for $500/mo and just change the number the calls are forwarded to and the email the forms go to.
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    • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
      Originally Posted by iAmNameLess View Post

      Awesome job. Instead of selling the leads directly, have you thought about renting out the website? $240-$360 for exact value of the volume of leads seems like a lot of work when you could just rent it out for $500/mo and just change the number the calls are forwarded to and the email the forms go to.
      Sorry, I reread what I said... and going to argue with myself. Did you agree that the leads would be exclusive? Most of the big lead selling companies will sell them to 3-5 companies at once. So I guess you're right in what you're doing... $240-360 X 3 = better than $500 X 1.
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      • Profile picture of the author TheCG
        Originally Posted by iAmNameLess View Post

        Sorry, I reread what I said... and going to argue with myself. Did you agree that the leads would be exclusive? Most of the big lead selling companies will sell them to 3-5 companies at once. So I guess you're right in what you're doing... $240-360 X 3 = better than $500 X 1.
        Yes, I gave the guy exclusivity. My plan was to use that as a selling point although I was truly surprised at how eager they were to buy.

        There might be a way to get the CallFire number to ring multiple phones at once but I am not aware of it. I just know how to forward the call from my marketing number to another single number.

        I know I sold them cheap. Service Magic sells the same leads to many people at once for 12 to 40 dollars each.

        Oh well...sometimes a fast nickle is better than a slow dime.
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by iAmNameLess View Post

      Awesome job. Instead of selling the leads directly, have you thought about renting out the website? $240-$360 for exact value of the volume of leads seems like a lot of work when you could just rent it out for $500/mo and just change the number the calls are forwarded to and the email the forms go to.
      I thought about renting out the site or selling the package altogether but really, I would like to hang onto this and keep control of it and I think most people like the idea of "no calls, no fees - lots of calls, higher fees but more income"

      It is sort of a "no way to lose" proposition for them.
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  • Profile picture of the author RFMarketing
    Nice Job!

    What did the Google Voice recorded messages say exactly??


    Then a bought 3 local phone numbers from CallFire and used them for tracking calls received, forwarding the calls to Google Voice numbers with prerecorded messages for callers.
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    • Profile picture of the author rodtyler
      Originally Posted by RFMarketing View Post

      Nice Job!

      What did the Google Voice recorded messages say exactly??
      I'd like to know that myself.
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by RFMarketing View Post

      Nice Job!

      What did the Google Voice recorded messages say exactly??


      Then a bought 3 local phone numbers from CallFire and used them for tracking calls received, forwarding the calls to Google Voice numbers with prerecorded messages for callers.
      Nothing earth shattering...that's for sure.

      They all said the exact same thing just substitute the different name of each business:

      "Thank you for calling Superior Carpet Cleaning in Austin. We are currently assisting other callers. Please leave your name and number and we will call you back soon. Thanks and have a great day!

      To top it off, I used the ATT mechanical voice to create the voicemail messages. They really sucked. haha
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  • Profile picture of the author MrJeff
    This is OUTSTANDING. Way to go..
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  • Profile picture of the author Voasi
    If you're selling exclusive leads, I'd at minimum double those prices. You could easily sell those leads 2-3 times more at that current price point, non-exclusive.

    I just recently rented out an attorney website in a smaller town for $800/mo. Site generates about 15 leads a month. He's getting a steal.
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    • Profile picture of the author shockwave
      Originally Posted by Voasi View Post

      If you're selling exclusive leads, I'd at minimum double those prices. You could easily sell those leads 2-3 times more at that current price point, non-exclusive.

      I just recently rented out an attorney website in a smaller town for $800/mo. Site generates about 15 leads a month. He's getting a steal.
      (Not trying to jack the thread here, just thought I'd share a little no B.S. info...)

      I only somewhat agree with Voasi on this one. I also do leadgen websites and the real challenge isn't really ranking websites/videos, it's finding contractors who are willing to pay for what you bring to the table. Although WE know "exclusive" leads are worth 2-3 times more money, the reality is they are only worth what someone is willing to pay. I've found that there is a lot of time investment in finding someone who is willing to buy the lead, educating them on the value of what you bring to the table, and then getting them to "sign on the line which is dotted!"

      If any of you out there do try want to go this route and can't find someone to buy the leads/rent/lease the site, you may want to join an affiliate program (HomeAdvisor, DoneRight, QualitySmith, Sears...etc). It's saved my bacon more than once! Especially if you find a good PPCall program.
      Pros: You're still selling leads and you don't have to worry about finding a "contractor" to buy the leads.

      Cons: You won't make as much money. Most affiliate programs will only pay out $7 - $16 per call and that is for the high-end type of home improvement niches like roofing, siding, windows, remodeling - all of which are highly competitive in most markets.

      You don't need to buy a bunch of WSO's either.....

      1. Do some GOOD keyword research looking for exact-match terms.
      2. Try to find an Exact Match domain.
      3. Build a simple website with a lead form (I recommend a simple Wufoo form - it's super easy and you can customize it to your niche).
      4. Bust out a boatload of videos. Make sure you have a call tracking number and your website ON the actual video.
      5. Grab some social backlinks from fiverr and vary the anchor text over a wide variety of keyword phrase (even some oddball ones like "click here").

      Most of the time, you will start to see some magic happen within 1-2 weeks, but commit yourself to 4-6 weeks (for big G indexing...etc) and watch the calls come in.

      And yes, this general strategy will work for almost any niche. If you don't want to sell direct to a business, sell them to an affiliate network.

      Good Luck.....
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      • Profile picture of the author Voasi
        Originally Posted by shockwave View Post

        (Not trying to jack the thread here, just thought I'd share a little no B.S. info...)

        I only somewhat agree with Voasi on this one. I also do leadgen websites and the real challenge isn't really ranking websites/videos, it's finding contractors who are willing to pay for what you bring to the table. Although WE know "exclusive" leads are worth 2-3 times more money, the reality is they are only worth what someone is willing to pay. I've found that there is a lot of time investment in finding someone who is willing to buy the lead, educating them on the value of what you bring to the table, and then getting them to "sign on the line which is dotted!"

        If any of you out there do try want to go this route and can't find someone to buy the leads/rent/lease the site, you may want to join an affiliate program (HomeAdvisor, DoneRight, QualitySmith, Sears...etc). It's saved my bacon more than once! Especially if you find a good PPCall program.
        Pros: You're still selling leads and you don't have to worry about finding a "contractor" to buy the leads.

        Cons: You won't make as much money. Most affiliate programs will only pay out $7 - $16 per call and that is for the high-end type of home improvement niches like roofing, siding, windows, remodeling - all of which are highly competitive in most markets.

        You don't need to buy a bunch of WSO's either.....

        1. Do some GOOD keyword research looking for exact-match terms.
        2. Try to find an Exact Match domain.
        3. Build a simple website with a lead form (I recommend a simple Wufoo form - it's super easy and you can customize it to your niche).
        4. Bust out a boatload of videos. Make sure you have a call tracking number and your website ON the actual video.
        5. Grab some social backlinks from fiverr and vary the anchor text over a wide variety of keyword phrase (even some oddball ones like "click here").

        Most of the time, you will start to see some magic happen within 1-2 weeks, but commit yourself to 4-6 weeks (for big G indexing...etc) and watch the calls come in.

        And yes, this general strategy will work for almost any niche. If you don't want to sell direct to a business, sell them to an affiliate network.

        Good Luck.....
        Agreed - it's definitely 2-fold: Creating sites/ranking and find a renter.

        I think it's important to choose your markets wisely. Everyone goes after plumbers, electricians, etc... but there are SO MANY other markets that aren't as tapped and have huge PPC costs (a prerequisite I look for) that are outside traditional "local" markets too.

        To piggy-back off of what ShockWave is saying... join the affiliate programs and find the businesses that are buying the leads. Then call them. Tell them you can give them exclusive leads instead of giving a cut to the affiliate network. They'll like to hear that.
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      • Profile picture of the author btyiw
        I run into this same issue with potential or current clients. Being able to communicate the value of what I'm offering.


        Originally Posted by shockwave View Post

        (Not trying to jack the thread here, just thought I'd share a little no B.S. info...)

        I only somewhat agree with Voasi on this one. I also do leadgen websites and the real challenge isn't really ranking websites/videos, it's finding contractors who are willing to pay for what you bring to the table. Although WE know "exclusive" leads are worth 2-3 times more money, the reality is they are only worth what someone is willing to pay. I've found that there is a lot of time investment in finding someone who is willing to buy the lead, educating them on the value of what you bring to the table, and then getting them to "sign on the line which is dotted!"

        If any of you out there do try want to go this route and can't find someone to buy the leads/rent/lease the site, you may want to join an affiliate program (HomeAdvisor, DoneRight, QualitySmith, Sears...etc). It's saved my bacon more than once! Especially if you find a good PPCall program.
        Pros: You're still selling leads and you don't have to worry about finding a "contractor" to buy the leads.

        Cons: You won't make as much money. Most affiliate programs will only pay out $7 - $16 per call and that is for the high-end type of home improvement niches like roofing, siding, windows, remodeling - all of which are highly competitive in most markets.

        You don't need to buy a bunch of WSO's either.....

        1. Do some GOOD keyword research looking for exact-match terms.
        2. Try to find an Exact Match domain.
        3. Build a simple website with a lead form (I recommend a simple Wufoo form - it's super easy and you can customize it to your niche).
        4. Bust out a boatload of videos. Make sure you have a call tracking number and your website ON the actual video.
        5. Grab some social backlinks from fiverr and vary the anchor text over a wide variety of keyword phrase (even some oddball ones like "click here").

        Most of the time, you will start to see some magic happen within 1-2 weeks, but commit yourself to 4-6 weeks (for big G indexing...etc) and watch the calls come in.

        And yes, this general strategy will work for almost any niche. If you don't want to sell direct to a business, sell them to an affiliate network.

        Good Luck.....
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      • Profile picture of the author James Woods
        Originally Posted by shockwave View Post

        (Not trying to jack the thread here, just thought I'd share a little no B.S. info...)

        I only somewhat agree with Voasi on this one. I also do leadgen websites and the real challenge isn't really ranking websites/videos, it's finding contractors who are willing to pay for what you bring to the table. Although WE know "exclusive" leads are worth 2-3 times more money, the reality is they are only worth what someone is willing to pay. I've found that there is a lot of time investment in finding someone who is willing to buy the lead, educating them on the value of what you bring to the table, and then getting them to "sign on the line which is dotted!"

        If any of you out there do try want to go this route and can't find someone to buy the leads/rent/lease the site, you may want to join an affiliate program (HomeAdvisor, DoneRight, QualitySmith, Sears...etc). It's saved my bacon more than once! Especially if you find a good PPCall program.
        Pros: You're still selling leads and you don't have to worry about finding a "contractor" to buy the leads.

        Cons: You won't make as much money. Most affiliate programs will only pay out $7 - $16 per call and that is for the high-end type of home improvement niches like roofing, siding, windows, remodeling - all of which are highly competitive in most markets.

        You don't need to buy a bunch of WSO's either.....

        1. Do some GOOD keyword research looking for exact-match terms.
        2. Try to find an Exact Match domain.
        3. Build a simple website with a lead form (I recommend a simple Wufoo form - it's super easy and you can customize it to your niche).
        4. Bust out a boatload of videos. Make sure you have a call tracking number and your website ON the actual video.
        5. Grab some social backlinks from fiverr and vary the anchor text over a wide variety of keyword phrase (even some oddball ones like "click here").

        Most of the time, you will start to see some magic happen within 1-2 weeks, but commit yourself to 4-6 weeks (for big G indexing...etc) and watch the calls come in.

        And yes, this general strategy will work for almost any niche. If you don't want to sell direct to a business, sell them to an affiliate network.

        Good Luck.....
        This is the strategy that I use. Fortunately the niche I am in the affiliate company pays $25 per lead. The catch is there is a few hoops for the lead to go through before you get paid.
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  • Profile picture of the author Matthew Anton
    Do you think using the name of the pseudo company (your domain perhaps?) isn't the best for the answering machine message because eventually the real company would have to call and state their name.

    How are you generating traffic to this website for the leads? Do you have a google places listing or any local listings, or is it primarily Google and those youtube videos? Specifics will help for all aspects.

    It's fantastic that you are getting leads for local businesses and think going into details will really help make this very informative / actionable for those wishing to replicate.
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    • Profile picture of the author Hobo82
      Great job cg.

      Would love to learn about this.

      Thanks
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by Matthew Anton View Post

      Do you think using the name of the pseudo company (your domain perhaps?) isn't the best for the answering machine message because eventually the real company would have to call and state their name.

      How are you generating traffic to this website for the leads? Do you have a google places listing or any local listings, or is it primarily Google and those youtube videos? Specifics will help for all aspects.

      It's fantastic that you are getting leads for local businesses and think going into details will really help make this very informative / actionable for those wishing to replicate.
      I don't think the name in the recording is a problem. I figure most people call several listings for estimates (especially in non-emergency situations) and wouldn't remember the names of all the ones they called anyway.

      Of course none of the calls that went to MY Google Voice box got a callback anyway. The Google Voice was for times I didn't have someone buying the leads from me.

      I tried to not over think the thing. This was my first venture into leads generation and I really just wanted to see where it went. It looks like I will make a few bucks so I thought I would share my admittedly ham-handed process. So many people get caught up in something being done perfectly that they never do anything.

      Like I said in the original post, I threw a few Fiverr backlinking gigs at them when I built the sites and made the videos and that has been it so all of the traffic has been from keyword selection, those few backlinks and Google.

      Of course I will be doing more now.
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  • Profile picture of the author kenmichaels
    Leads are the easiest things to sell ... period.

    It is the equivalent to selling crack.

    Think of it like this, sell a product some one may or may not want ...
    or sell something everyone wants.

    leads are what all sales people on the planet want ... and the better the lead is ...
    the more they will pay.
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  • Profile picture of the author eClicker
    Congrats it gives me great motivation to see success stories like this. It does'nt have to be a 30 video WSO does it? lol
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    • Profile picture of the author davidjames42973
      That's awesome that you're generating that many leads from only 3 sites. I currently have 16 lead generation websites and they bring in the same amount of leads as your 3 sites do.

      I've recently been focusing on targeting much larger cities for lead generation. It's much harder to get rankings but will definitely be worth it once the leads begin to come in.
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  • Profile picture of the author malia
    I tried to not over think the thing.
    Yeah that's the way to go. Over-thinking is a sure fire way to not getting something done.

    You said one of them blew up. Do you know why?
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by malia View Post


      You said one of them blew up. Do you know why?
      No idea.

      I did the same exact things to all 3 and one is doing great, the other 2, not so much.

      I guess it all comes down to competition for the keywords.
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      • Profile picture of the author sodomojo
        Way to go. I haven't gotten into lead gen sites yet. What WSO did you buy?
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      • Profile picture of the author mrtrance
        Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

        No idea.

        I did the same exact things to all 3 and one is doing great, the other 2, not so much.

        I guess it all comes down to competition for the keywords.
        How are your sites setup? Do you just have all the content on just the homepage with generic content and then a few other pages like about us, terms of services, contact, etc.?

        What sort of CTA (Call to Action) do you use on your sites to get them to call? Just phone# at a few spots? Do you also have a contact form on the site as well?
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        • Profile picture of the author TheCG
          Originally Posted by mrtrance View Post

          How are your sites setup? Do you just have all the content on just the homepage with generic content and then a few other pages like about us, terms of services, contact, etc.?

          What sort of CTA (Call to Action) do you use on your sites to get them to call? Just phone# at a few spots? Do you also have a contact form on the site as well?
          All of the sites are just a homepage and a contact us page. That is it. They are all built with the standard WP 2011 theme with a custom header, again, made with generic photos.

          Yes, the homepage is keyword optimized with generic content.

          As far as calls to action, there are several "Call Us Now for xxxxxx" throughout the homepage but that is about it.
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          • Profile picture of the author mrtrance
            Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

            All of the sites are just a homepage and a contact us page. That is it. They are all built with the standard WP 2011 theme with a custom header, again, made with generic photos.

            Yes, the homepage is keyword optimized with generic content.

            As far as calls to action, there are several "Call Us Now for xxxxxx" throughout the homepage but that is about it.
            Are your sites ranking on page 1 for various keywords that you have optimized on for with the generic content? What sort of traffic are you seeing as far as numbers go on a monthly basis with the best site? What percentage of visitors actually convert to callers right now?
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            • Profile picture of the author TheCG
              Originally Posted by mrtrance View Post

              Are your sites ranking on page 1 for various keywords that you have optimized on for with the generic content? What sort of traffic are you seeing as far as numbers go on a monthly basis with the best site? What percentage of visitors actually convert to callers right now?
              Yes. The site that is doing so well is actually ranking on page 1 for 6 of the keyword phrases I used.

              I have no idea on the stats you are speaking of. Knowing those numbers wouldn't mean a thing to me. The number of calls coming through is what matters.
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  • Profile picture of the author payoman
    Can you provide a more specific timeframe on all of this?

    I'd just like to get an idea on the turn around time from creating the sites, ranking them (and specifics on the SEO techniques wouldn't hurt either) and making the sale.

    Also, contracts? Do you simply check callfire each month and send him the bill? How does billing work?

    Thanks for your responses so far, I am interested because my town is a similar size and this could be an interesting alternative to look at.
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by payoman View Post

      Can you provide a more specific timeframe on all of this?

      I'd just like to get an idea on the turn around time from creating the sites, ranking them (and specifics on the SEO techniques wouldn't hurt either) and making the sale.

      Also, contracts? Do you simply check callfire each month and send him the bill? How does billing work?

      Thanks for your responses so far, I am interested because my town is a similar size and this could be an interesting alternative to look at.
      I built the sites in January of this year.

      As far as SEO, again, just a few Fiver backlinking gigs. Nothing fancy at all.

      Yes, I had the guy sign a one page agreement. No commitments, just spelling out what my part in this is as well as his part.

      Yes, I will check CallFire each month on the first and send him the spreadsheet of all the calls we received and a bill. In this case he will pay me by credit card each month which I process using my merchant account and virtual terminal or he can pay me via PayPal or by check. The up front payment he made with a credit card over the phone.

      Hope this helps.
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  • Profile picture of the author CPAInter
    This is awesome! Are you going to monopolise on this and setup more of these sites + more for other cities?
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by CPAInter View Post

      This is awesome! Are you going to monopolise on this and setup more of these sites + more for other cities?
      I can see doing more of these in my downtime but it isn't something I plan to make a major focus right now.
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  • Profile picture of the author Paul Moss
    This is pretty awesome, you are inspiring me to go make my own lead-gen website
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  • Profile picture of the author benbro
    Great thread, CG.

    This is definitely one of those things I've allowed to stay on the backburner for far too long. However, now that I've got some clients and so forth its something I plan to get going on in the near near future.

    Originally Posted by Voasi

    I just recently rented out an attorney website in a smaller town for $800/mo. Site generates about 15 leads a month. He's getting a steal.
    You betcha he gotta steal! I used to work for a lawyer marketing agency and I kid you not...I've spoken to attorney's who've paid 5 figures just buying a good local exact match domain name.

    Plus, depending on the type of law firms we're talking about one lead could easily bring the law firm 5 to 6 figures.

    Nonetheless, my personal preference is to take a quick nickel over a slow dime any day of the week. So $800 every month on autopilot is still superb!
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  • Profile picture of the author JustinDT
    Banned
    Awesome method. Personally I've never had any interest in selling leads. But it sounds simple. Do you plan to expand beyond just your local area ?
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    • Profile picture of the author rank
      Hey guys, hopefully you can help me:

      -where did you search to find the market price for specific leads i.e. pay per call

      I've got several sites on the 2nd page for roofers, kitchen renovations and plumbers but am not sure as to the market price worth of calls/leads

      anyone care to share how they determined the market price worth of their leads??
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      • Profile picture of the author shockwave
        Originally Posted by rank View Post

        Hey guys, hopefully you can help me:

        -where did you search to find the market price for specific leads i.e. pay per call

        I've got several sites on the 2nd page for roofers, kitchen renovations and plumbers but am not sure as to the market price worth of calls/leads

        anyone care to share how they determined the market price worth of their leads??
        You can PM me with the geographic area and I can let you know what HomeAdvisor (ServiceMagic) currently charges. That will give you a good idea. Otherwise, you can find a pdf called "Service Magic Lead Fee Schedule", but I think those prices were from 2009.
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        • Profile picture of the author rank
          PM sent!!!

          thanks for the help
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by JustinDT View Post

      Awesome method. Personally I've never had any interest in selling leads. But it sounds simple. Do you plan to expand beyond just your local area ?
      I don't see why not.

      I never met with this guy that bought these leads. I just told him what I had and he said, "Let's do it!"
      Signature

      Yes, by the way, I AM in the Witness Protection Program. I could tell you who I am but then I would have to kill you.

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  • Profile picture of the author Caroline Balinska
    Great work! I agree with upping the price of the leads. And you should offer the end user "4 quotes" so you can sell the lead 4 times.
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  • Profile picture of the author Saluki Guy
    Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

    and threw a couple of Fiverr backlinking gigs at them.
    What fiverr gig did you use. Most of them are terrible.
    Signature
    There is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted — all the voyage of their life Is bound in shallows and in miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat, And we must take the current when it serves, Or lose our ventures. - Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by Saluki Guy View Post

      What fiverr gig did you use. Most of them are terrible.
      Don't remember right offhand. I just looked for backlink gigs, sorted them by ratings and went with the one with the best rankings.
      Signature

      Yes, by the way, I AM in the Witness Protection Program. I could tell you who I am but then I would have to kill you.

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  • Profile picture of the author arkina
    This is really excellent information. Thank you so much for posting it so clearly!


    Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

    I have been doing offline stuff for a couple of years now. Primarily simple websites for small businesses with some FaceBook and Google + thrown in the mix. Nothing to write home about but it has provided a livable income.

    Several months ago I bought some WSO on building lead sites that sounded easy enough so I decided to build 3 for my medium sized city (175k population) and see what happened.

    I bought 3 domains with generic sounding business names like SuperiorCarpetCleaning.com, SuperiorPlumbingServices.com & SuperiorAutoTowing.com. Not the actual names I bought by the way.

    Then a bought 3 local phone numbers from CallFire and used them for tracking calls received, forwarding the calls to Google Voice numbers with prerecorded messages for callers.

    I built the sites with WordPress free themes, tricked them out with generic business photos and keywords, made videos and uploaded to YouTube using the keywords and photos and threw a couple of Fiverr backlinking gigs at them. That is it. Spent about $75 total on all 3.

    I monitored them for a while and started getting a few calls here and there but nothing big. Then a few months ago one of them exploded and started getting 20 - 30 calls a month...each month. I figured now was the time to try and sell some leads but I always put it off thinking they would be hard to sell.

    This past Wednesday I finally decided to make some calls. I called 3 companies in the niche that was doing so well and got answering machines for all...July 4th holiday.

    Anyway, all 3 called me back and all 3 wanted the leads but the one with the credit card in his hand got them.

    Guess they weren't such a hard sell after all.

    I am selling these leads for $12 each with a deposit held back for 20 up front. $240 in the bank and looking at $240 - $360 per month in almost passive income. I say almost because you know I am going to start giving those videos and websites a little love now after ignoring them for the past few months.
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    • Profile picture of the author mojo1
      Major congrats are in order. You've managed to succeed in an area where many have tried and failed.

      I would encourage you to keep this thread updated cuz it's one of the more positive
      ones on these here boards
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  • Profile picture of the author jspmedia
    I saw this on Flippa, his pluming lead gen site on Google Map listing on NYC Plumbers, etc kws and he said he is renting site for $2000 per month to local plumbing company.

    I see more and more business owners owns multiple websites to dominate page 1..
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  • Profile picture of the author AprilLemarr
    Wow TheCG that is great! The first hurdle seems to be the hardest to get over and it must feel wonderful to have contacted the businesses...and to have made a recurring income at the same time.

    I am currently working on lead generation sites as well and hope to have my first site up soon.

    Thank you for posting your success story for everyone to read and get inspired by it.
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    • Profile picture of the author midasman09
      Banned
      Here's a strategy I'm going to start using for "Lead Gen". I'd like your comments;

      1) Choose a "service biz" niche like Roofers or Plumbers or HVAC or Carpet Cleaners or Pest Control
      2) Buy or create a Promo Video for the Service (Dave Cisneros, Nick Mancuso and a few other warriors have some great, ready-to-go videos)
      3) Get a phone # from CallFire and use it in the Title of my videos (PlumberAshlandOR | 544-670-8799 or AshlandORRoofer | 543-227-1820) Also place Title of Video 4 times in description and place in Tags.
      4) Upload video to my YT channel....get some backlinks from fiverr.
      NOTE: I've found that "ServiceTown" gets the most searches BUT is harder to rank for so....use "TownService" that gets less searches but higher ranking (ex: LasVegasRoofing or TampaWindows)
      5) I'll choose ONE business in that Service Niche and send calls to their Cell Phone # and have CallFire add their "whisper" note to each call. (Before each call is connected there is a recording; "Here's another lead from Advantage Marketing"! It then connects the caller)
      6) Watch my phone stats on this number. When there've been 3 or 4 calls....phone the cell number I've been directing calls to and tell the person answering (should be the Service biz owner) that "I" have been sending these calls to his number and I can continue to send "Hot Lead Calls" to HIS phone if he wants to continue receiving HOT Leads.
      7) His first question will be, "How Much?" I'M going to initially charge $25 per Call for the first 20 calls ($500) Then, when I see what kind of response has been coming in AND...the type of business (Beauty Salons have a much lower "ticket" than Roofers....so, I'd charge accordingly! Actually, I'm not going to bother with Beauty Salons of any Low-Ticket biz)
      8) And....regarding PayMent from my clients....I will use a "Check Software" program I bought from Staples (CheckSoft...$49) I will tell my new client I do a "Check By Phone" program and ask him to read off the numbers and info on one of his business checks.

      Now....after the 20 calls, I will then determine how much I will continue to charge on a FLAT, MONTHLY FEE! (Each month I have the Check Software print out checks which I deposit just as if I had been handed the checks by my clients. I prefer NOT to have "middlemen" (Credit Card Cos or PayPal) controlling my money))

      So....there you have MY format. I'd like to hear YOUR comments.

      Thanks,
      Don Alm....
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      • Profile picture of the author midasman09
        Banned
        Ooopppss.....just found an Independent YOGURT shoppe who WANTS IN on my "Dining Directory" program.

        Emma opened her "Yogurt Shoppe" on July 1st. I stopped by on Monday, July 8 to show her some Demo Samples of the Videos I do.

        I told her what I charge for Videos and inclusion in my "Diner Directory". Before I had a chance to go further...she said, "I WANT IT!"...and pulled out her check book.

        I then took some outside and inside shots with my digital.....went back to office and got some photos of Yogurt cups and cones.....opened up PhotoStory3....made a video....burned it to a DVD....went back to Yogurt Shoppe this morn....put the DVD into my "Portable DVD Player" (RCA - $89).....she LOVED it.

        Along with Videos....I'm also setting up a local "Dining Directory" where my Videos will be listed in Alphabetical order by Type of Cuisine.

        NOTE: by adding the "Dining Directory" to my Video program I answer the question, "What do I need a Video for?"

        Anyway....Don Alm....STILL ACTIVE in the "Face-To-Face" sales biz.

        NO WAY....could I have EVER have gotten interest, let alone an actual PHYSICAL CHECK from a biz owner by....Cold-Calling on Phone, Emailing, Direct Mail!

        Thus...."US" Face-To-Face sales people continue to "earn a nice chunk o change".

        Don Alm.....long time "In-Person" Sales guy who probably should post on Forums where there are members who are NOT "looking for ways to make money on their KeyBoards"
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        • Profile picture of the author TheCG
          Originally Posted by midasman09 View Post


          I told her I charge $25ea for the first 20 calls.

          WOW...she is paying $25 each? For a yogurt shop?

          How expensive is that yogurt, anyway? hahaha
          Signature

          Yes, by the way, I AM in the Witness Protection Program. I could tell you who I am but then I would have to kill you.

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          • Profile picture of the author midasman09
            Banned
            Sorry.....too much going on today. I charge restaurants for a Video and a Listing in my "Dining Directory". I charge Roofers, Plumbers and HVAC....$25 per Call....20 calls initially.

            Don Alm
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        • Profile picture of the author Scott Stevens
          Originally Posted by midasman09 View Post

          Ooopppss.....just found an Independent YOGURT shoppe who WANTS IN on my "Dining Directory" program.

          Emma opened her "Yogurt Shoppe" on July 1st. I stopped by on Monday, July 8 to show her some Demo Samples of the Videos I do.

          I told her what I charge for Videos and inclusion in my "Diner Directory". Before I had a chance to go further...she said, "I WANT IT!"...and pulled out her check book.

          I then took some outside and inside shots with my digital.....went back to office and got some photos of Yogurt cups and cones.....opened up PhotoStory3....made a video....burned it to a DVD....went back to Yogurt Shoppe this morn....put the DVD into my "Portable DVD Player" (RCA - $89).....she LOVED it.

          Along with Videos....I'm also setting up a local "Dining Directory" where my Videos will be listed in Alphabetical order by Type of Cuisine.

          NOTE: by adding the "Dining Directory" to my Video program I answer the question, "What do I need a Video for?"

          Anyway....Don Alm....STILL ACTIVE in the "Face-To-Face" sales biz.

          NO WAY....could I have EVER have gotten interest, let alone an actual PHYSICAL CHECK from a biz owner by....Cold-Calling on Phone, Emailing, Direct Mail!

          Thus...."US" Face-To-Face sales people continue to "earn a nice chunk o change".

          Don Alm.....long time "In-Person" Sales guy who probably should post on Forums where there are members who are NOT "looking for ways to make money on their KeyBoards"
          Don, you're one smooth dude.
          Signature

          Yours in prosperity,
          Skochy - The Musical Salesman

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  • Profile picture of the author SarahEmpower
    Good For You dude...
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  • Profile picture of the author ekalaivan
    Now someone can please tell me how to do keyword research? I know a roofing company in my city who will pay for leads. But I don't know the key terms they use in their business.

    How to go about it?
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    • Profile picture of the author DWolfe
      ekalain these are keywords ideas..... City Roofer, Roofer City, New Roofs in city, Roof Repairs in city. City new roofs, City roof repairs. 24-Emergency roofing in City..

      Take "Springfield" a generic name... The keyword term would be "Springfield Roofers" or "Roofing in Springfield" another keyword.
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      You can earn 10% average annual returns on your investments - https://app.groundfloor.us/r/m2aa7b
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    • Profile picture of the author TheCG
      Originally Posted by ekalaivan View Post

      Now someone can please tell me how to do keyword research? I know a roofing company in my city who will pay for leads. But I don't know the key terms they use in their business.

      How to go about it?
      You have to think about what someone might type into Google when searching for a service.

      What search term would YOU use when looking for a roofer in your city?
      Signature

      Yes, by the way, I AM in the Witness Protection Program. I could tell you who I am but then I would have to kill you.

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      • Profile picture of the author TheCG
        UPDATE to the Leads Website...

        Since the guy signed the agreement with me on the 5th, the calls have been coming in at anywhere from 1 to 3 per day most days.

        It is cool as hell logging into CallFire and seeing 2 or 3 new calls knowing I am getting $12 bucks each for them.

        No, it isn't a hell of a lot of money but you gotta love the process.

        The increase in calls is due to my making a few more videos and buying a few more social backlinks for them as well as placing some ads for the business elsewhere. As long as I can make more then $1 back for each $1 that I spend, it is all good...at least that is how I see it.
        Signature

        Yes, by the way, I AM in the Witness Protection Program. I could tell you who I am but then I would have to kill you.

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        • Profile picture of the author AussieT
          Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

          UPDATE to the Leads Website...

          Since the guy signed the agreement with me on the 5th, the calls have been coming in at anywhere from 1 to 3 per day most days.

          It is cool as hell logging into CallFire and seeing 2 or 3 new calls knowing I am getting $12 bucks each for them.

          No, it isn't a hell of a lot of money but you gotta love the process.

          The increase in calls is due to my making a few more videos and buying a few more social backlinks for them as well as placing some ads for the business elsewhere. As long as I can make more then $1 back for each $1 that I spend, it is all good...at least that is how I see it.
          Glad to see this is still working for you and even working better now

          Is this still only one site out of three or have you been able to replicate this with the other 2 sites?
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        • Profile picture of the author Dr Dan
          Originally Posted by TheCG View Post

          UPDATE to the Leads Website...
          It is cool as hell logging into CallFire and seeing 2 or 3 new calls knowing I am getting $12 bucks each for them.

          No, it isn't a hell of a lot of money but you gotta love the process.
          Its just like building a real estate empire. Build them one at a time and that $200-$300 a month starts to become $5,000, $10,000, $20,000 and more every month!

          Be the Virtual Real Estate Tycoon!
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  • Profile picture of the author commonjoe
    How do you determine the keywords you target for your niche. Do you have a search/competition value you look for.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dr Dan
    Congrats and it will get even easier the more you sell or lease these sites out :-)
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