A New Era of Search Is Here
Search is evolving fast—and it’s not just about Google anymore.
With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, Bing Chat, and Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE), homeowners searching for contractors aren’t always clicking on 10 blue links. Instead, they’re asking AI to recommend the best siding contractor near me or explain how much a bathroom remodel costs in Raleigh. The answers? They’re often AI-generated summaries that pull from top-performing websites, local business listings, and customer feedback.
At FatCat Strategies, we specialize in helping home improvement companies stay ahead of the curve. In this post, we’ll break down how ChatGPT and AI-assisted search are changing SEO for contractors, and what you can do to stay visible—and competitive.
1. Online Reputation Is More Important Than Ever
ChatGPT and similar tools scan a wide variety of sources for public sentiment. That means your Google Reviews, Yelp ratings, and Angi profiles all contribute to your visibility in AI-generated answers.
- Prioritize review generation campaigns
- Respond promptly to feedback
- Highlight keywords like “bathroom remodel,” “vinyl siding,” or “roof replacement” in customer reviews
🛠 FatCat Tip: Ask satisfied customers to mention the specific service and city in their reviews for extra SEO juice.
2. Your Website Is Still Your SEO Home Base
Even in an AI-driven world, your website is still central to your online presence. These tools pull content directly from webpages, blog posts, and FAQ sections when generating answers.
- Optimize service pages with local keywords and structured data
- Keep content fresh and aligned with user questions
- Ensure your site is mobile-friendly and fast-loading
🛠 FatCat Tip: Use blog posts to answer real homeowner questions—especially those that begin with “how much,” “what’s the best,” or “can I.”
3. A Stellar Google Business Profile Drives Visibility
When someone asks ChatGPT for a “siding contractor in Charlotte,” it often checks local map listings and GBPs.
- Keep your Google Business Profile updated
- Post regularly and respond to reviews
- Add new photos from recent jobs
🛠 FatCat Tip: Use the “Services” and “Products” sections in GBP to mirror the keywords you’re targeting on your website.
4. AI Understands Context—So Make Your Content Count
Language models like ChatGPT don’t just look for keywords; they understand intent. Contractors who publish educational content are more likely to be featured in answers.
- Build FAQ sections on every service page
- Use natural language to explain your process
- Add case studies and before/after project write-ups
🛠 FatCat Tip: Want to win the “best contractor near me” phrase? Tell the story of what makes your business the best—and back it up with customer results.
5. Directory Listings and Backlinks Still Matter
Citations from trusted directories like Houzz, Thumbtack, Angi, and BBB still boost your authority in the eyes of both Google and ChatGPT.
- Ensure consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) data
- Get featured in local blogs or press releases
- Seek out industry-specific guest post opportunities
🛠 FatCat Tip: If you’ve won awards or been featured in a magazine or newspaper, make sure that’s visible on your website—and linked.
6. Visuals Matter for Trust and AI Training
While ChatGPT doesn’t “see” images, platforms that use AI to recommend businesses do.
- Use high-quality before-and-after photos
- Upload job site shots and branded graphics
- Consider short video testimonials and walk-throughs
🛠 FatCat Tip: Don’t just rely on social media—embed visuals directly onto your website and GBP.
7. Proximity and Local Signals Still Influence Results
AI tries to localize answers even when users don’t specify a location. That means contractors with strong local signals win.
- Mention your service areas repeatedly in content
- Include location-based headlines like “Kitchen Remodels in Apex, NC”
- Use structured data and schema markup
🛠 FatCat Tip: Create a service page or landing page for each core city or town you serve.
AI Is Changing the Game—But You Can Win It
At FatCat Strategies, we believe the rise of ChatGPT is not a threat—it’s an opportunity. AI-assisted search is pushing contractors to deliver clearer messaging, better service, and more helpful content. If you embrace these shifts now, you’ll be ahead of your competitors when AI becomes the standard entry point for finding home improvement pros.
We help contractors get found by both humans and AI. From optimizing your Google Business Profile to building content that converts, our team is ready to help you own your market in this new era.
Ready to future-proof your SEO strategy? Contact FatCat Strategies for a free digital marketing assessment.
