Angie’s List (now merged into Angi) has long been a go-to for finding and reviewing home service providers. However, it often requires an account or payment to unlock detailed reviews or top-tier listings. If you’re looking for free platforms to find verified professionals and real customer reviews, the following alternatives offer powerful features, directories, and leads without the cost.
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1. HomeAdvisor (Now part of Angi)
HomeAdvisor is a direct competitor to Angie’s List—now under the same parent company but still operating independently. You can search for service pros in dozens of categories, read reviews, and request free quotes without paying anything.
Best for: Homeowners needing multiple quotes and verified professionals fast.
2. Thumbtack
Thumbtack connects users with local service providers in everything from home improvement to tutoring and event planning. You post your job, and pros contact you with custom quotes.
It’s free to use and shows credentials, reviews, and response rates.
Best for: Comparing quotes for both household and personal services.
3. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit specializes in small tasks like furniture assembly, cleaning, and mounting TVs. It connects you with trusted “Taskers” in your area, all of whom are background-checked.
You can view hourly rates and reviews for free.
Best for: Quick, one-time jobs and small home improvement tasks.
4. Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a neighborhood-based social network that includes a local recommendations section. Residents often post their experiences with service providers or ask for referrals.
It’s free and provides hyperlocal insight you can’t get on larger platforms.
Best for: Finding contractors your neighbors personally recommend.
5. Yelp
Yelp is one of the most well-known platforms for local business reviews. It covers restaurants, salons, contractors, home services, and more. You can see verified customer feedback, photos, and contact info for free.
Best for: Comparing multiple businesses side by side with real reviews.
6. Google Business Profiles (Google Maps)
Searching on Google Maps or Google itself shows business listings, star ratings, hours, service areas, and customer reviews. Many contractors have verified Google Business Profiles, and you can even call or message them directly.
Best for: Fast, no-sign-up access to reviews and business info.
7. Porch
Porch connects homeowners with contractors for repairs, installations, remodeling, and moving. It partners with large retailers like Lowe’s and includes project guides and cost estimators.
You can get matched with pros and request estimates for free.
Best for: Large home renovation and repair projects.
8. Houzz
Houzz is known for interior design inspiration, but its Pro directory includes vetted contractors, designers, and remodelers. You can browse photos of past work, read reviews, and contact pros directly.
No sign-up is required to browse or contact listings.
Best for: Finding design-forward professionals with a strong portfolio.
9. Bark
Bark helps you find local professionals in home services, wellness, photography, and more. You submit a request, and Bark finds matches who then reach out to you.
While pros pay to respond, users can browse and request quotes for free.
Best for: Quickly gathering quotes in a wide range of industries.
10. BuildZoom
BuildZoom is a contractor directory focused on licensed, high-quality builders and remodelers. It pulls data from public records, so you can check licenses, permits, and past projects.
It’s completely free and especially useful for high-budget renovations.
Best for: Verifying licenses and past work history of general contractors.
Choosing the Best Free Angie’s List Alternative
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Need quick quotes and reviews? → Try HomeAdvisor, Thumbtack, or Yelp
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Looking for local insight? → Use Nextdoor or Google Maps
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Planning bigger renovations? → Explore Houzz, BuildZoom, or Porch
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Want help with smaller tasks? → Go with TaskRabbit
Each platform offers free access to professionals and customer feedback—helping you make informed choices without the subscription costs.
