Most contractors lose jobs not because leads vanish, but because potential customers shop around after the first contact. In this episode Jeff explains a simple, low-friction tactic that stops that leakage: a small refundable deposit sent via one-click SMS or payment link immediately after initial contact. You’ll hear a common field scenario where a same-day lead ghosts and the job goes to a faster responder, then get a plain-language breakdown of why a tiny commitment increases booking rates and reduces cancellations. Jeff walks through two easy automations you can set up in a day—an instant deposit link and a follow-up confirmation with a price band and tech ETA—plus ready-to-use script copy, measurement tips, and rules for fair refunds. Practical, doable, and designed for plumbing, HVAC, electrical, roofing and other home service teams that want to recover more revenue from the leads they already get.