TL;DR
Running Google Ads helps property maintenance contractors show up at the exact moment local customers are searching. This guide breaks down how to set up, run, and optimize ads to get real leads without wasting budget.
Introduction
If you run a property maintenance business, chances are you’ve thought about how to get more calls, leads, or jobs from people in your area. One of the fastest ways to do that? Google Ads. This guide is written for contractors who aren’t tech experts—but want real results. We’ll walk you through what Google Ads are, why they matter for local services, and how you can use them to grow.
What Are Google Ads for Property Maintenance Contractors?
Google Ads are paid placements that show your business at the top of Google search results when someone types in a relevant query like “handyman near me” or “property maintenance services in [city].”
You only pay when someone clicks your ad. These ads are highly visible and let you reach people who are actively looking for services you offer, such as:
- Handyman services
- Lawn or garden upkeep
- Plumbing or electrical fixes
- Rental property cleaning or repairs
Other terms you might hear: pay-per-click (PPC), Google search ads, sponsored listings.
Why Google Ads Matter for Property Maintenance Services
Google Ads are especially effective for local service businesses because:
- People search with urgency (“fix leaky sink now”)
- You show up at the top of the page
- You can target by ZIP code, neighborhood, or city
- You can control your budget
- You can measure results (calls, form fills, etc.)
Why now?
In 2025, Google’s AI-driven search tools, including AI Overviews and local map results, favor paid listings that are relevant, geographically targeted, and helpful. If you’re not running ads, you’re likely missing urgent, high-converting leads.
How Do Google Ads Actually Work?
- User searches: Someone types “property maintenance near me”
- Google runs an auction: Based on your bid, ad relevance, and landing page experience
- Your ad appears: If your ad wins, it shows at the top of the results
- You get charged: Only when someone clicks or calls
Key elements in your ad account:
- Keywords: Terms you bid on (“gutter repair,” “emergency handyman”)
- Ads: What users see (headline, description, link)
- Budget: What you’re willing to spend each day/week
- Landing page: Where users go after clicking (your service page)
How to Set Up and Optimize Google Ads (Step-by-Step)
| Step | Action | Pro Tip |
| 1 | Create a Google Ads account at ads.google.com | Use a Gmail tied to your business |
| 2 | Choose “Leads” as your goal | Ensures ads are optimized for calls/forms |
| 3 | Pick “Search” campaign type | Shows your ad on search results |
| 4 | Target your local service area | Use radius or ZIP codes |
| 5 | Select relevant keywords | Think like a customer |
| 6 | Write strong ad copy | Mention service, location, benefits |
| 7 | Add call extensions | Let users call directly from the ad |
| 8 | Set daily budget ($10–$20/day) | Adjust based on results |
| 9 | Link to a clear landing page | Include phone, services, reviews |
| 10 | Track results weekly | Review calls, clicks, cost per lead |
Bonus Tips:
- Use negative keywords (like “DIY”)
- Write 3 ad versions and rotate
- Schedule ads during business hours
- Add Google Business Profile link
Real-World Example: 25 Calls in 10 Days
Case: Mike, a local handyman in Phoenix, ran a campaign targeting “rental property maintenance” and “emergency repairs.”
- Budget: $15/day
- Keywords: “24/7 handyman Phoenix,” “property maintenance”
- Result: 25 calls, 5 booked jobs in 10 days
- ROI: 6X return on ad spend
Why it worked:
- Simple landing page with “Call Now”
- Smart keyword targeting
- Local service radius
FAQs:
What’s the best budget to start Google Ads for local services?
Short answer: Start with $10–$20 per day.
Details: This gives enough data to learn without overspending. Scale up once you see results.
Do I need a website to run Google Ads?
Short answer: No, but it helps.
Details: You can link to your Google Business Profile, but a website improves trust and conversion.
How soon can I see results from Google Ads?
Short answer: Often within a few days.
Details: Ads go live quickly, and you may start getting clicks and calls right away.
Can I run ads myself or hire someone?
Short answer: You can do it yourself.
Details: Google Ads is user-friendly. If you’re unsure, work with a local marketing agency.
Will Google Ads help me show on Google Maps too?
Short answer: Yes, indirectly.
Details: Ads increase your overall visibility, which helps your map presence as well.
