Lead generating apps, is anyone using them?

You’re not wrong at all. What you’re experiencing isn’t a flaw in those platforms, it’s the business model itself. Most paid lead services like HomeStars, Bark, Thumbtack, etc. are designed to monetize contractors, not protect them, which is why the same lead gets sold to multiple companies with no accountability for whether the job is already closed. In pest control it’s even worse because customers are often in panic mode and hire the first decent option, so by the time you get the lead you’re already late. You might get a few wins that make it feel worth it, but long term the cost, dead leads, and price shoppers add up fast. What has worked far better for us is owning the demand through Google Business Profile optimization and reviews, Local Service Ads, local grassroots efforts like neighborhood Facebook groups or door hangers, and consistently marketing to past customers for recurring services. Paid lead platforms can work as a short-term filler, but as a foundation they’re frustrating and expensive. Owning your traffic and reputation locally beats renting leads every time.