Understanding Free Leads: Organic Discovery vs. Paid Referrals
Quick Answer
Free leads are potential clients who find and contact you directly through your Heritage Web listing at no cost to either party. Unlike paid referrals ($29-$395 per lead), free leads come from organic discovery through search engines, platform searches, or direct navigation. You receive these messages in My Inbox, completely separate from paid referral systems.
Overview
Heritage Web offers four distinct ways to generate leads, but understanding the difference between free leads and paid referrals is crucial for maximizing your business opportunities. Free leads provide unlimited potential at zero cost, while paid referrals offer pre-qualified, exclusive access to verified prospects.
Key Differences Between Free Leads and Paid Referrals
Free Leads (Direct Contact)
Cost: $0 to both you and the visitor
Source:
Google and other search engines
Heritage Web platform searches
Direct links from social media
Word-of-mouth referrals
Quality: Variable, unvetted contacts
Exclusivity: None – visitors can contact multiple professionals
Management: My Inbox for messages only
Volume: Unlimited potential
Paid Referrals
Cost: $29-$395 per lead
Source:
Referral intake forms on Heritage Web
Pre-qualified by Heritage Web team
Verified contact information
Quality: High-intent, verified prospects
Exclusivity: Sold once – only you get the contact
Management: Leads Dashboard (separate from My Inbox)
Volume: Based on your settings and budget
How Each System Works
Free Lead Flow
Visitor discovers your listing online
Views your profile and contact options
Either calls directly or sends a message via the Message button
Message arrives in your My Inbox
You respond directly at no cost
Paid Referral Flow
Client submits detailed intake form
Heritage Web reviews and verifies (within 24 hours)
System matches to qualified professionals
You receive notification with preview
You decide whether to purchase ($29-$395)
Upon purchase, get exclusive access to contact
Important Notes
Systems are completely independent – My Inbox is only for free leads, never for paid referrals
Same person can use both channels – Someone might contact you directly AND submit a referral form
No automatic conversion – Free leads never become paid leads automatically
Different communication methods – Free leads use My Inbox messaging; paid referrals require direct phone/email after purchase
FAQs
Can I receive both free leads and paid referrals? Yes! Most successful professionals use both channels. Free leads provide volume at no cost, while paid referrals offer quality and exclusivity.
Why would someone submit a paid referral if they can contact me for free? Paid referral clients want Heritage Web to match them with the best professional for their specific needs. They value the vetting process and prefer a curated match over searching themselves.
Do free leads appear in my Leads Dashboard? No. Free leads only appear in My Inbox. The Leads Dashboard is exclusively for paid referrals you can purchase.
Can I convert a free lead into a paid referral? No. These are separate systems. However, the same person could theoretically contact you through both channels.
Next Steps
Check your My Inbox daily for free lead messages
Consider upgrading to sponsor status to remove login barriers
Set up both free and paid lead systems for maximum opportunity
Monitor which channel brings your best clients