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Local Services Ads vs Google Ads
By Umair Nawaz, founder of Lirevon Updated How we check facts
Google Local Services Ads (LSA) show your company at the top of search results with a badge, and you usually pay per lead. Google search ads (Google Ads) show a text ad when someone searches a phrase you chose, and you usually pay per click. Both put you in front of people who need tree work now. They are set up and paid for in different ways.
We sell one of these options, so read this with that in mind. We try to be fair. Costs are rough ranges, not quotes.
Side by side
| Question | Local Services Ads | Google search ads |
|---|---|---|
| How you pay | Usually per lead, within a budget you set. Cost varies by market. | Usually per click, within a daily budget. Cost varies by market and by keyword. |
| How it starts | You apply, and Google checks your business and may ask for license and insurance. This can take time. Whether tree work is offered depends on your area, so check with Google. | You can start quickly. You pick keywords, write ads and choose a landing page. |
| What the caller sees | Your name, rating, reviews and a call button, often at the top of the page. | A text ad with your wording, and a link to your website or a call button. |
| Control | Less. Google sets much of the layout and how leads are counted. | More. You control keywords, ad text, locations and the landing page. |
| What it cannot do | Cannot help if you miss the call. Lead counts and rules depend on Google. | Needs steady tuning. Clicks cost money even when the visitor does not call. |
Who each option suits
Local Services Ads suit you if
You want a simple, call-focused listing, your reviews are strong, and you are happy to pay per lead and let Google handle most of the layout.
Search ads suit you if
You want control over keywords and wording, you have a fast website to send clicks to, and you can watch the numbers each week.
Some tree companies start with Local Services Ads, where you usually pay per lead, then add search ads for more control. Either way, ads only pay off if someone answers the phone.
Related: Local Services Ads, cost per lead, Google Business Profile and our offers.
Questions people ask
Which is better for a tree service company?
It depends on your market and your goals. LSA is simple and call-focused. Search ads give more control. Many companies test one first and add the other later.
How much do they cost?
It varies by market. Costs differ by city and by service. Ask Google or an ad manager for an estimate for your city before you commit.
Can I run both?
Yes. They show in different places on the results page, so some companies run both. Just keep each budget clear so you can see what each brings in.
Does Lirevon run Google ads?
Ad management is a separate plan, listed on our pricing page. Ad spend is paid by you to Google and is never included in the monthly fee.
What do Local Services Ads need to get started?
Google checks your business and may ask for license and insurance, which can take time. Whether tree work is offered depends on your area, so check with Google.
Are ads worth it if I miss calls?
Not much. A paid call that goes to voicemail is money lost. Fix how you handle missed calls first, then add or raise ad spend.
Which one gives me more control?
Search ads. You choose keywords, ad text, locations and the landing page. With Local Services Ads, Google sets much of the layout and how leads are counted.
Do I need a website for these ads?
Search ads send clicks to a page, so you need a fast, clear one. Local Services Ads lean on your Google listing, reviews and call button, though a good website still helps.
Do reviews matter for ads?
Yes. With Local Services Ads your rating and reviews show next to your name. With search ads they still help people trust you before they call.
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