Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by admin
Contractors and remodelers: here’s how to turn your past customers and local network into steady business. Most contractors rely on word-of-mouth and referrals to get new work — and it works. But what happens when things slow down? Or when your best clients forget to recommend you because they haven’t heard from you in a while? That’s where a local-focused email newsletter can make all the difference. You don’t need a massive list or fancy software. If you can send a monthly email to a few dozen past customers, neighbors, and referral partners, you can keep your business top-of-mind — and your calendar booked .Let’s break it down.
Why Email Still Works — Especially Locally
Unlike social media (where algorithms get in the way), email goes straight to someone’s inbox. It’s personal, direct, and still one of the most trusted communication channels out there. Here’s why a local newsletter is especially effective :You stay in touch with people who already know and trust you. You remind clients you’re still around and open for business. You showcase your work in the neighborhoods you serve. You build trust with warm leads who aren’t quite ready to call — yet. Even one newsletter can trigger a reply like:“Hey, I’ve been meaning to reach out — we’re ready to get started on that bathroom.”
How to Build a Local Email List (Without Being Pushy)
You don’t need thousands of names. Start with the people you already know.
Here’s who belongs on your list:
- Past clients
- Neighbors of jobsites
- Referral partners (designers, real estate agents, inspectors, etc.)
- Anyone who’s asked for an estimate
- People who signed up on your website.
Smart ways to collect emails:
- Add a simple opt-in form to your website or landing page.
- Offer a lead magnet like: “5 Things Every Homeowner Should Know Before Starting a Remodel in [Your Town]”
- Ask for estimates: “Can I send you a few ideas by email? ”
- Mention your newsletter in social media posts: “Want to see what we’re building this month?”
What to Put in a Local Email Newsletter
You don’t need to be a copywriter. You just need to be real and relevant.
Here’s a simple formula that works:
- Featured Project. Show off a recent job with a photo and 2–3 lines about what you did .“Last month in [Neighborhood Name], we helped the Smiths turn a dated kitchen into a modern family gathering space.”
- Quick Homeowner Tip. Think seasonal and simple.“June tip: Clean out those clogged gutters before summer storms hit!”
- Local Shoutout – Mention a vendor, team member, or partner.“We teamed up with [Local Designer] on this one — their tile picks are always spot on.”
- Clear Call to Action – “Booking now for July. If you’re planning a project, reply to this email and let’s talk.”
Keep It Simple. Keep It Going.
Consistency builds trust. You don’t need a weekly newsletter. Monthly is perfect. Email layout can be simple:. One photo. One quick story. One tip. One button or phone number.
Tools like Mailchimp, Aweber, or ConvertKit make it easy. Or even start with a clean Gmail template if you’re just beginning.
Make It Lead-Friendly
Every email should have a job-generating CTA: “Reply to schedule your estimate”, “Click here to book a free walk-through”, “Call us before spots fill up for [next month]”.
Make sure your contact info is easy to find in every email — and don’t be afraid to create urgency.
Track What Works
Use your email platform to monitor: Open rates (aim for 30% or better). Click-through rates (even 2–5% is great). Replies and responses — the best sign someone’s ready to talk. Adjust based on what people seem to care about: more photos? More seasonal tips? More before/afters?
Bottom Line
Even if you only have 50–100 names on your list, a consistent, local-focused email newsletter can turn cold leads warm, spark referrals, and get your phone ringing. Stay real. Stay consistent. And let your work do the talking.
Want a Head Start? Need help writing your first newsletter or setting up a sign-up form?
Booked Solid Content can do it for you — fast.
Drop me a line at dan@bookedsolidcontent,com and let’s get your business back in your inbox. And please, let me know if you’d like this article.
