How to write a job post that actually gets bids

A job post is a sales pitch — you’re pitching contractors on choosing your project over the next one. Here’s what the best posts get right.

1. Be specific about the scope

Not "kitchen reno." Try "Replace upper and lower cabinets in a 12x14 kitchen, keep existing layout."

2. Show the space

A single photo of the room or area triples the response rate. We’ve measured this.

3. Name a realistic budget range

Hiding the budget filters out the best contractors first — they don’t have time to guess.

4. Say when you need it done

"Anytime in the next month" is fine. "ASAP" without context is a red flag.

5. Say something human

You’re hiring a person, not a vendor. One sentence about the project or yourself goes a long way.