Creating a Web site for your remodeling business doesn't require a lot of technical know-how. A familiarity with the Internet and a good sense of what your customers need are the keys to creating a site that will help boost your business, but it's also important not to become overwhelmed by the endless possibilities the Internet has to offer.
It's important to take the Internet into consideration when promoting a remodeling business. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly a quarter of all American adults use the Internet regularly, and that number is expected to increase dramatically with the 2000 census. More than 70% of American children used computers at school in 1997. Homeowners use the Internet to research contractors, projects and products before making an initial phone call.
In order to understand what a homeowner looks for in an Internet site, take time to surf for competitors in your area. Put yourself in a homeowner's shoes and imagine that you're planning a project. See what information your competitors are offering, and look for information they're missing, too. Often, by including a few simple details, your Web site and your business can stand out and catch the attention of prospective clients.
The Basics
Any remodeler's Web site should include a few pieces of basic information. This includes contact information for your company, especially phone numbers, addresses and names of sales representatives. The site should also include a description of your company, focusing on the average type, size and cost of your projects.
Solid Foundation
Most homeowners expect to see photos of recently completed projects, with before and after shots. Taking a few examples of your work and putting them online is relatively simple and makes a big statement to prospective clients. If you have any specific expertise or other outstanding notable selling points, these should also be made clear on the Web. A remodeler with a staff of 20 who has been working in the area for more than 10 years should make this information available online.
Extra Credit
Links to homeowner-targeted Web sites, manufacturers and other Internet resources don't take up much space on a site, and they keep homeowners coming back to your page as a resource. The more they visit, the more likely they are to remember and call when they're ready to commit to a project. Floor plans, job-price calculators and other "extras" also help sell the expertise of your company to a client.
And chances are your company has most of this information already compiled for sales meetings and advertisements. Hiring a Web site designer and getting this information online will help your company reach prospective clients.
As Web sites and surfing expand into every home, remodeler Web pages will become as important as a Yellow Pages listing. With all the bells and whistles available on the Internet, it’s important for remodelers to create a set of goals to target Web site design.