Cana nyone provide feedback on these types of website where you buy exclusive rights (partner) for particular counties? I’m struggling with a decision. I’ve had seasoned investors tell me that it’s better to just do the marketing…better results.
For what these companies tend to charge in the way of up-front costs and licensing fees, I think I’d rather go it alone, but I come from a marketing background.
If you feel that marketing is really your weakest link, then you might consider one of these services, I suppose. I would probably try to funnel those dollars elsewhere, though. Perhaps a freelancer who could help you out for a whole lot less…
Some charge flat fee, others charge per lead fee. One company I talked to charges $35/lead. The leads will not be screened though. You need to do your numbers and see if your personal marketing will be cheaper per lead.
In today’s market you really need a website to funnel leads through. Having a phone number is fine, but having a website in addition is ideal. Can you build your own site? Is it worth it to you to have an image already setup? That’s what you need to determine.
The important thing to remember is that the cost of having the site is one thing, you still need to pay to advertise and get people to the site.
Don’t overspend on sites until your business is getting leads. Some people build the site in order to get leads, so pay setup fees and monthly fees in hopes to get business. Your business will come from the networking and marketing that you do off the web, so you just need a basic site that has your contact info and information about your company.
Once you have enough money to pay a webmaster, you can upgrade your site, which is part of your marketing budget. Some people make the mistake and spend the money first, then think it will bring leads.
I want to thank everyone for the feedback! I agree that marketing myself is probably better. At least until I get some $$ in the bank!! :biggrin