Ever wondered how to start a business like angie’s list? In this article we’ll discuss all the details about it.
Why Build a Tradesmen Website?
The idea of creating a tradesmen website holds immense potential, but why is it worth diving into this industry? Well, let’s delve deeper into the reasons behind the growing allure of online tradesmen services.
The tradesmen website industry is all about making life easier for homeowners and service providers alike.
In a fast-paced world, where time is of the essence, these platforms simplify the process of finding reliable service providers.
Imagine a scenario where a homeowner needs a plumber urgently.
Instead of flipping through the yellow pages or scrolling through endless search engine results, they can simply visit your website.
This simplicity is what sets tradesmen websites apart.
Efficiency is another key factor. These platforms streamline the entire process, from searching for a service provider to booking an appointment and making secure payments.
Everything is just a few clicks away, saving precious time and reducing hassle.
Homeowners can quickly connect with professionals who are available when they need them, and service providers can efficiently manage their bookings.
Credibility is a cornerstone of the tradesmen website industry.
These platforms provide valuable information about service providers, including their qualifications, certifications, and customer reviews.
This transparency builds trust, and trust is a vital ingredient in any successful business.
Customer satisfaction is the ultimate goal.
By creating a user-friendly platform that connects homeowners with reliable service providers, you’re contributing to a positive experience for both parties.
Homeowners get their problems solved efficiently, and service providers gain access to a steady stream of potential customers.
HomeAdvisor and Angie: A Comparison
To gain a deeper understanding of the tradesmen website industry, it’s essential to compare two prominent players in the field: HomeAdvisor and Angie.
These giants have made significant impacts on the market, each with its unique approach and strengths.
HomeAdvisor and Angie have merged to form a company named Angi Inc., which also has representations in countries like France (123devis), Germany (MyHammer), Canada (Homestars), and more.
With over 3,000 employees and multiple offices across the US, HomeAdvisor was even recognized as one of the “2018 Best Places to Work.”
When it comes to market presence, Similarweb reveals interesting insights. Angi is a significantly larger company, boasting annual revenue of $1 billion and attracting 11 million monthly visitors.
In contrast, HomeAdvisor’s annual revenue ranges between $200-500 million, with 5.6 million monthly visitors.
While both platforms are substantial, Angi holds a distinct edge in terms of revenue and online traffic.
Pricing structures are another area of comparison. Angi charges for leads and advertising, with lead costs ranging from $15 to $85 or more.
Advertising on Angi can cost around $300 per month.
On the other hand, HomeAdvisor offers membership starting at approximately $300 per year, with additional charges for leads ranging from $15 to $100 each.
HomeAdvisor may appear slightly more expensive, but it often attracts larger-scale renovation projects, making it beneficial for service providers focusing on substantial undertakings.
However, the differences extend beyond pricing. HomeAdvisor offers a wide range of options for homeowners, providing detailed information and customer reviews.
In contrast, Angi prioritizes quality and vetting, curating a selection of highly rated and trusted professionals.
While HomeAdvisor offers a broader selection, Angi focuses on ensuring the highest quality.
Both platforms aim to provide convenience in finding and hiring home service professionals, catering to different user preferences.
How to Build a Website like HomeAdvisor or Angie?
Now that you understand the significance of the tradesmen website industry and have insight into the market leaders, it’s time to uncover the step-by-step process of building your own platform.
Creating a website like HomeAdvisor or Angie requires careful planning, a clear vision, and a comprehensive strategy.
In this section, we’ll break down the essential steps to guide you on your journey.
Step 1: Choose Tradesman Services Business Model
The foundation of any successful tradesmen website is its business model. How will you monetize your platform and ensure its sustainability?
There are several business models to consider, each with its unique advantages. Let’s explore some examples:
- Membership/Subscription Model: Under this model, service professionals pay a subscription fee to gain various privileges on your platform. You can generate revenue by charging fees to professionals, consumers, or both. For instance, Bloomchase charges professionals between $19 to $39 per month for membership.
- Transaction Fee Model: In this model, you earn a percentage of the payment for each completed job. To make this model effective, ensure that all transactions occur through your platform, allowing you to withhold your commission. Amazon Home Services, for example, takes a 15-20% cut of the final purchase price.
- Consumer Connection Revenue Model: This model involves charging a fee for each lead, regardless of whether the job is eventually provided or not. Thumbtack, for instance, takes a 20% fee for each lead.
- Advertisements Model: Consider incorporating ad banners on your website to promote the services of registered tradesmen or partners that sell equipment and materials used in repairs. Both Angi and HomeAdvisor utilize this revenue stream.The choice of a business model should align with your platform’s goals, target audience, and growth strategy.
It’s important to consider your platform’s unique value proposition and the competitive landscape in your chosen niche when making this decision.
Step 2: Create a List of Features
A tradesmen website’s success hinges on its features. The features you offer will determine the user experience, the value your platform provides, and its competitiveness in the market.
Let’s outline some of the essential features your platform should consider:
- User Registration: Allow homeowners and service providers to create accounts with ease. Consider enabling social media login options for convenience.
- Search and Matching Algorithms: Implement robust search functionality that enables users to find service providers based on location, services offered, ratings, and reviews.
- Matching algorithms can connect homeowners with suitable professionals automatically.
- Ratings and Reviews: Encourage users to leave ratings and reviews after service completion. Ensure transparency and authenticity by implementing measures to prevent fake reviews.
- Secure Messaging: Enable secure communication between homeowners and service providers. Include features like in-app messaging and notifications for timely responses.
- Online Booking and Scheduling: Offer an intuitive booking system that allows users to schedule appointments at their convenience. Consider incorporating a calendar view for easy scheduling.
- Contactless Payments: Provide secure payment options, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and online payment gateways. Ensure that transactions are encrypted and protected.
- Verification and Background Checks: Implement a verification process for service providers to establish trust. Conduct background checks, verify licenses, and ensure that professionals meet industry standards.
- Service Provider Profiles: Allow service providers to create detailed profiles showcasing their expertise, certifications, and past work. High-quality profiles can attract more customers.
- Job Postings: Let homeowners post detailed job listings with their requirements and budget. Service providers can then bid on these jobs, creating a competitive marketplace.
- Feedback and Dispute Resolution: Provide a mechanism for users to report issues or disputes and ensure a fair resolution process.
- Mobile Optimization: Ensure your platform is mobile-responsive, as many users access these services on their smartphones.
- Admin Dashboard: Develop a robust dashboard for administrators to manage listings, user accounts, payments, and overall platform performance.
Conclusion – How To Start A Business Like Angie’s List
In conclusion, the tradesmen website industry offers a compelling opportunity to tap into a booming market.
By understanding the essential steps, business models, and features outlined in this guide, you can embark on your journey to create a successful platform, simplifying lives and contributing to the thriving home services sector.
