Better Homeowners
Since 1974, helping you when you buy, sell and all the years in between!

Don't Google Service provider near me - 12/17/2025

When the AC quits, the roof leaks, or a pipe bursts, most homeowners instinctively grab their phone and Google the nearest repair service. It feels quick, convenient, and straightforward. In fact, more than 80% of homeowners admit the internet is their first stop when they need help around the house.

But what you find online isn't always what's best for you.

Many of the top search results aren't actual local providers. They're lead generation companies—national firms that pay for ads and use SEO tricks to appear first in your search. When you call or submit a request, your information is sold to whichever contractor bought that lead. That means the person showing up at your home might not be the most qualified or reputable; they may just be the fastest to pay for your details.

The risks? Inflated prices, inconsistent workmanship, or in some cases, people posing as professionals. What seemed like the easiest solution can quickly become the most stressful.

So how do you find someone trustworthy? Referrals. Neighbors, friends, and family often know reliable plumbers, roofers, electricians, and handymen who've already proven themselves. A word-of-mouth recommendation is worth far more than an online listing.

And here's the resource many homeowners overlook: your real estate agent.

Real estate professionals interact with contractors, inspectors, appraisers, roofers, landscapers, and other service providers on a regular basis. We've seen them in action during urgent transactions where quality and deadlines mattered most. Over the years, we've built a list of go-to professionals...people we know, trust, and call again and again.

Whether you bought your home last year or ten years ago, your agent is still a valuable connection. We don't charge for these referrals, and we don't get a commission from the people we recommend. We simply want to help you protect and enjoy your home.

So the next time something breaks, skip the search bar. Give us a call. We're happy to share the names of service providers we have used and found to be both reputable and reliable.

Larry Bell CRB, CRS, SRES, ABR, SFR John L Scott Real Estate Everett, WA (425) 359-4041 12094 Larry has over five decades of experience in the real estate industry, with a strong foundational background in new construction, design, development, financing, and sales management. Since 1974, he has focused on residential sales and listings, managing and training hundreds of agents and growing branch offices throughout every economic climate. Larry has developed in-depth market knowledge that all his clients benefit from. In 1992, Larry owned and operated a successful real estate franchise that maintained the title of top 10% personal production nationwide. Since 2019, Larry has been solely committed to representing home-buying and selling clients at John L. Scott Real Estate in Everett as a managing broker. Larry's commitment to continuing education and expanding his professional accreditations demonstrates his focus on providing the highest, professional service for his clients. He holds numerous accreditations, including: -CRB Certified Residential Broker -CRS Certified Residential Specialist -ABR Accredited Buyer Representative -SRES Senior Real Estate Residential Specialist -SFR Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource Additionally, Larry is an active member of: -National Association of Realtors -Washington State Realtor Association -Snohomish-Camano Board of Realtors He and Judy, his wife are a proud family. They share four sons, eight grandkids, and five great-grandkids. Larry is prepared to help you succeed in your real estate endeavors and welcomes the opportunity to help you with your real estate future! Contact Me Visit my Website Send a Referral Subscribe to Newsletter