By Bridey Orth
Debra Cohen shows you how to start a profitable
homeowner referral business in your local area!
Q: What is a Homeowner Referral Network?
A: It’s a business that refers home-improvement contractors to homeowners in their area. Not only is it a resource for homeowners, but it also serves as an outsourced sales and marketing force for busy contractors.
Q: What was your motivation to start a Homeowner Referral Network?
A: As first-time homeowners, we quickly discovered how difficult it was to find reliable home-improvement contractors. And we didn’t have time to scour the phone book for names of trustworthy painters, plumbers, and carpenters.
I came up with the idea of developing a network that would refer home-improvement contractors to homeowners in my area. Within three days of launching Home Remedies® of NY, Inc., I was getting requests from homeowners for pest-control specialists, painters, and floor refinishers. And contractors were thrilled to receive new job leads.
Q: How did it turn into a business opportunity for others?
A: I was getting inquiries from homeowners and contractors outside of my local area. Then other entrepreneurs called, interested in launching a business similar to mine. I realized the business concept had wide appeal, so I put together a comprehensive manual showing others how to launch a referral business in their communities.
Q: What do you offer those who are interested in starting their own Homeowner Referral Networks?
A: They receive The Complete Guide to Owning and Operating a Successful Homeowner Referral Network©. I also offer a turnkey Homeowner Referral Network (HRN) website package, customized HRN Management Software, graphics CD, HRN newsletter, and one-on-one consultation time for added support.
Q: What are the benefits of running this type of business?
A: This business only requires about 20-25 hours a week. It’s also unique in that it offers a sense of satisfaction when you match a homeowner with the right contractor as well as help hard-working, responsible contractors build their client bases and businesses.
On a personal note, I get to enjoy the rewards of a profitable home-based business while staying at home to raise my children. ♦
