Leads & Marketplace
Getting Leads Through the ANVL Marketplace
The ANVL marketplace connects contractors with homeowners seeking quotes. It's a steady source of potential work for those who respond quickly and professionally.
How the Marketplace Works
Homeowners post quote requests describing their project: "Looking for a painter to repaint my master bedroom, approximately 300 sq ft, sage green color." Contractors matching that trade and service area get notified and can submit bids. The homeowner compares bids and chooses a contractor.
Getting Matched with Opportunities
ANVL automatically matches your trade and service area with relevant quote requests. You'll receive notifications of new opportunities in your email and the dashboard. The more complete your profile (service areas, trades, portfolio), the more matches you'll get.
Viewing a Quote Request
When you're notified of a quote request, view the job details: location, scope of work, timeline, budget (if specified), and photos. You'll also see how many other contractors are bidding on this job. Use this info to decide if you want to bid.
Responding to Opportunities
To bid on a job, click "Submit Bid." You can submit a quick estimate directly or send a message first ("I'd like to schedule a site visit to provide an accurate estimate"). Quick responses significantly increase your chances of being selected.
Response Time Matters
Homeowners expect quick responses. Contractors who bid within hours are more likely to get chosen than those who wait days. If you can't respond immediately, set a reminder to respond within 24 hours. Speed shows professionalism and availability.
Submitting a Competitive Bid
Your bid should be competitive but profitable. If you bid too low to win, you'll regret it. Bid fairly based on your costs and market rates. Include a brief note about your experience: "I've done 50+ bedroom painting projects with 5-star ratings. Licensed and insured."
Bid Details
Include your proposed price, timeline, and any relevant details: "Can start next week, estimated 2-day project, includes prep and two coats." Be specific. Vague bids lose to detailed ones. Show you understand the project and have thought through execution.
Your Marketplace Profile
Your profile determines which opportunities you're matched with. A complete profile (photos, certifications, rates, reviews) gets more matches. Respond quickly and professionally to opportunities—this increases your ranking and more matches.
Competition and Bidding Strategy
You're usually competing against other contractors on quote requests. Stand out with: competitive pricing, professional presentation, quick response, detailed understanding of the project, and strong reviews. Don't compete purely on price—you'll lose money.
Communication with Homeowners
Use ANVL messaging to ask clarifying questions: "Is the entire room or just one wall? Current wall condition?" More info helps you bid accurately and shows you care about details. Many homeowners choose contractors who ask good questions.
Site Visits and Estimates
For complex jobs, offer a free site visit: "I'd love to see the space before giving my best estimate. Are you available Tuesday afternoon?" In-person assessments often lead to better estimates and relationships. Homeowners appreciate contractors who show up.
Following Up
If you don't hear back after submitting a bid, one follow-up message is fine: "Hi Jane, wanted to check if you had questions about my bid. Happy to discuss." Don't be pushy, but one gentle follow-up is appropriate.
When You Win a Bid
Once the homeowner accepts your bid, you create a formal job in ANVL and proceed with work. The marketplace transaction is now a customer relationship—focus on exceeding expectations and earning a referral.
Feedback and Ratings
Your marketplace rating is based on jobs from marketplace quotes. Fast responses, professional communication, quality work, and good reviews improve your rating. High-rated contractors get more opportunities and can charge premium prices.
Declining Opportunities
If you're too busy or the job isn't a good fit, decline the opportunity. This opens it to other contractors and helps ANVL match you with better opportunities. Being selective protects your rating and bandwidth.