For over ten years, I've been on a mission to build and rank websites, mostly exact match domains. These are sites that directly match high-search keywords like "tree removal," "home builder," "pest control Melbourne," and more. It's been a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, but it's something I love and something that has given me the freedom to be my boss.
Finding the Right Businesses
I remember the early days when a lead came through, and I had to find someone to take it. These days, I often push the leads to current client campaigns. But sometimes, I still do the hard work, like cold calling or walking into businesses unannounced. Recently, while heading to another client, I stumbled upon a large arborist company. I checked their website and realized they likely couldn't have done it without additional leads. This isn't uncommon. Large, established companies often have more work than they can handle. However, the principle remains: once you have leads, you must find businesses that need them.
The Process of Lead Distribution
When I get leads, I look for businesses on page two or three of Google in the specific suburb the lead comes from. I target businesses with few Google reviews or no website at all. My approach is straightforward: I ask if they can handle more work. For example, a recent lead was for 15 palm trees needing removal from a golf course. It's potentially a big job, and finding the right business to handle it is crucial.
Confidence Through Experience
Years of building and ranking websites have given me the confidence to offer business leads as a trial. Let them take leads for a month or two, and if they find value, we discuss further collaboration. It's about under-promising and over-delivering. Giving businesses a taste of what they can achieve with the right leads often results in long-term partnerships. This approach helps them grow and builds my reputation as a reliable source of valuable leads.
Evolution of My Business
The journey began with a simple love for building websites. As my sites gained traction, businesses started approaching me to replicate my success. This demand naturally evolved into running a digital marketing agency. Despite this growth, I continued building and maintaining my domains. These sites are assets that provide SEO juice, proof of work, and multiple avenues for revenue.
The Rank and Rent Model
I've always found immense satisfaction knowing that my efforts help other businesses thrive. This process has taught me a lot about persistence and the value of hard work. The rank and rent model, in particular, offers a reliable source of passive income once the sites are established. After the initial setup and ranking, these sites require minimal ongoing maintenance, allowing me to focus on building new ones and expanding my reach.
High ROI and Flexibility
The return on investment can be substantial, especially in niches with high lead value. The model offers flexibility regarding how leads are monetized—whether through renting the site or selling leads directly. The constant demand for high-quality leads makes this model sustainable in the long term. Ensuring high lead quality is crucial for retaining clients and building long-term relationships. Choosing the right clients who can handle and value the leads is vital for the success of the rank and rent model.
The Freedom to Be a Dad
What started as a hobby has turned into a thriving business, and the journey has been incredibly rewarding. I love the freedom that comes with it—the freedom to work from anywhere, to spend more time with my family, and to do what I love. This business has allowed me to break free from the traditional 9-5 grind and create a life I'm passionate about. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it.
I remember when I had to explain to people what I did. Now, my work speaks for itself. The websites I've built prove my ability to generate leads and drive business growth. They act as proof of work, proof of doing the thing, which means I don't need to use cheesy sales techniques or prove profitability and revenue. The leads I generate are real and valuable, and that's what matters.