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Caroline O'Donovan reports at Buzzfeed that Google plans to announce a new product aimed at connecting Google search users with local home-service providers — like plumbers and electricians.
Currently, Google searches for things like plumbers and electricians return links to service providers along with associated AdWord advertisements. Sources said the new product would go beyond this presentation format to actually connect search users with service providers.
Google isn't the only tech company looking to tap into the huge and rapidly expanding home services industry. Amazon just launched its new Home Services site, which allows Amazon shoppers to search, select, and pay for things like landscapers and car mechanics without ever leaving the site.
Amazon is offering more than 700 services that include just about anything that might require a professional to come to your door. Tasks are searchable on Amazon, just like any other product, and there are no estimates — offers will be priced by the professional before the job takes place. Amazon says it vets all the professionals for the invite-only program before inclusion. "It's a pretty natural extension of our business to move into the service space," says Peter Faricy, vice president of Amazon Marketplace. "In talking to customers, they don't feel like anyone serves their needs end to end. You can pay a subscription to get reviews, but why not just do that on Amazon for free?"
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Monday April 13 2015, @09:21PM
> "In talking to customers, they don't feel like anyone serves their needs end to end.
> You can pay a subscription to get reviews, but why not just do that on Amazon for free?"
Because Amazon reviews are known for their integrity. Can I get free house maintenance if post a review? And the more reviews I post the more free services I can get... [tristandenyer.com]
Angie's List has a problem with integrity too -- they sell placement to service providers (a poorly rated service provider can pay for placement higher up the default list of providers). But at least they don't officially let people post reviews in exchange for free services.
Also, do not want Amazon or google to know even more about my life.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Monday April 13 2015, @11:14PM
Exactly. I don't believe very many online reviews--unless they point out some specific feature or problem in enough detail that the author might have actually used the product or service.
When I want a plumber or electrician (roofer, heating contractor, etc), I talk to my neighbors. Their houses are similar age and construction to mine (1950s and 60s) and they know who did an honest job.
Last week one of the springs broke that balances the garage door -- our neighbor remembered the name of the local company that fixed hers five years ago and they were great. For fun, I checked in the yellow pages (telephone, imagine that) and this company had the minimum listing, no bold, no advert. The guy that came out said his father started the company and they have six vans that are always busy--a nice little business that appears to run by word of mouth and good service.
Similar stories for updating electrical service, a super neat job, at the quoted price. Also tear-off and re-shingle the roof, same good deal.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Monday April 13 2015, @11:33PM
I only review what I buy, and rarely post a negative review. One negative review was rejected no matter how I worded it, it finally got accepted but was so stripped of details it was no longer accurate. A few days later the review was "suppressed" by the seller complaining to amazon I presume. I can only conclude that amazons ratings system is only geared towards more sales, and not honest reviews. I chose my wording carefully, there was no foul language or accusations.