Exclusive local leads vs. shared lead marketplaces (Angi, Thumbtack)
Short answer: On shared marketplaces, the same homeowner request can go to several contractors, so you're competing on speed and price from the first minute. With exclusive leads, the request goes only to you. Shared marketplaces offer volume right away; exclusive local sites take time to build but mean less competition per lead.
How shared lead marketplaces work
Services like Angi (formerly HomeAdvisor) and Thumbtack let homeowners describe a job, then match the request with contractors. Depending on the service and settings, the same request may be offered to more than one pro, and pros typically pay per lead or per contact, whether or not they win the job. Check each platform's current terms for how leads are priced and how many pros see each request.
How exclusive local leads work
An exclusive lead goes to one contractor only. With One Towne Media, each town and trade has one guide site (for example, a water hardness guide for Eagle Mountain, Utah), and every quote request or call from it goes to our one partner there.
Side by side
| Shared marketplace | One Towne Media | |
|---|---|---|
| Who gets the request | Can be several contractors | One contractor per trade per town |
| Speed to first leads | Usually fast, as the platform already has traffic | Slower at first; new local sites take time to rank |
| Upfront cost | Varies by platform | $0 upfront, free until your first 3 exclusive leads |
| Contract | Varies by platform | None; month-to-month after the trial |
| Your own website | Not involved | Not involved; we run a separate town site |
Which is right for you?
If you need volume this week, a shared marketplace may get you there faster. If you're tired of racing other shops for the same homeowner, exclusive leads mean every request you get is yours to win. Plenty of contractors use both.
Common questions
Are exclusive leads always better than shared leads?
Not always. Shared marketplaces can deliver more volume faster. Exclusive leads mean less competition for each request.
Can I use Angi and One Towne Media at the same time?
Yes. Nothing stops you from using both.
Book a 10-minute call. $0 upfront, free until you get your first 3 exclusive leads, no contract.
Book a 10-min callCall (631) 526-2801