Exclusive vs shared leads

Botzmart · updated September 2026

Two lead sellers can quote you $40 and $120 for what sounds like the same thing. The difference is almost always exclusivity — and it is the single biggest factor in whether buying leads makes money.

What the words mean

• Exclusive: the enquiry is sent to one business. The homeowner gave their details once and is expecting one call.
• Shared: the same enquiry is sold to several businesses — often three to five — each of whom thinks they bought a lead.

The maths, without the sales pitch

Suppose a shared lead costs $35 and an exclusive one costs $120.

• Shared: you call third and reach a homeowner who has already spoken to two companies. Realistic close rate: 5–10%. Cost per customer: $350–$700 — plus the hour of your day.
• Exclusive: you are the only caller. Realistic close rate: 20–35%. Cost per customer: $340–$600, in minutes rather than hours.

The headline prices look far apart; the cost per acquired customer is often level. What is not level is the damage to your day, and to the customer experience: a homeowner fielding five calls rarely picks the best company, they pick whoever sounds most available.

Why shared leads exist at all

Because they are easier to sell. The seller makes more per enquiry and loses nothing when you fail to reach the customer. That is not a conspiracy, it is a business model — but it means you should ask the question directly rather than infer it from the price.

How to tell which one you are being sold

• Ask, in writing, how many businesses receive this enquiry.
• Ask whether the customer was told their details would be shared — the good sellers say no because they do not share.
• Ask what the credit policy is for duplicates, out-of-area and wrong-service enquiries.
• Ask for one live sample. A seller who cannot show you what a real lead looks like is a seller you cannot judge.

When shared can still work

If you have a dedicated person who can answer within seconds, a strong script and a compelling reason to choose you on the first call, shared leads can be profitable — that is exactly how well-run call centres make them pay. If your owner is on a roof all day, they cannot.

What we do

Every enquiry that comes through Botzmart goes to one business only, with the customer's name, number and what they asked for. Pay per lead or a flat fee, cancel anytime, and the first lead is free — tell us your trade and area.