Lacking the time, budget, or inclination to develop your own marketing materials? A growing number of manufacturers and suppliers produce free or inexpensive newsletters, brochures, and other documents designed to help sell your remodeling services while also (here's the caveat) directly or indirectly promoting their products. Many materials can be customized with your company's contact information.

For example:

  • Lowe's “For Pros” Web portal has a free, one-page newsletter called “Your Home” with consumer-oriented articles on home improvement. The four-color newsletter is refreshed monthly, making it a viable tool for ongoing marketing to current and prospective clients. Download in PDF form, customize by pasting in your business card, then print and distribute as many copies as you like. The site has a similar feature called “Create Your Own Ad” using six customizable templates. You'll find both at http:// forpros.lowes.com.
  • Andersen Windows and Doors has brochures called “WindowSpeak” and “The Advantages of Andersen Windows & Doors” intended to “educate” remodeling clients about windows and patio doors. They're easy to download, customize, and distribute as e-mail attachments or printed documents. Visit www.andersenwindows.com, click on the “Professional” tab, select “Remodelers” from the drop-down menu, and click on “Help Your Clients.” You can also link your Web site directly to Andersen's, leveraging its online content.
  • Benjamin Moore Paints has free, full-color “sell sheets” that highlight product features and benefits. Moore's “Contractor Sales & Marketing Program” costs $23.95 and consists of tips for successful marketing and templates for various forms (estimating, client surveys, etc.). Contractors can order through Benjamin Moore dealers or by calling 800.622.0550, ext. 901.
  • GE Appliances has online applications that let remodelers and other home-improvement specialists create customized appliance brochures, among other marketing tools. Learn more at www.geappliances.com/buildwithge/.
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