Facebook Plunges Into Home Repair Matchmaking Service
- Social network expands Messenger app as e-commerce platform
- Startup Pro.com will connect Messenger users, contractors
Venture capitalists are backing technology companies that aim to bring transparent pricing to home improvements and reduce the risk of hiring a contractor.
Photograph: Getty ImagesFacebook Inc. is the latest technology company that wants to connect you with a handyman who can install a ceiling fan or fix a leaky toilet, following Amazon.com Inc., Google Inc. and a slew of startups seeking ways to make money from the $300 billion home-improvement market.
The social networking site is joining with Seattle startup Pro.com, which will help a Facebook Messenger user find a qualified contractor, get an instant quote and schedule an appointment within minutes on home projects from mounting a big-screen television to painting a room. Pro.com, which operates in more than 5,500 U.S. cities, also unveiled on Wednesday a similar text-messaging service separate from Facebook.