Google reports that 46% of all searches now have local intent. Even more telling: 76% of people who search for something nearby on their smartphone visit a business within 24 hours, and 28% of those searches result in a purchase. For restaurants, “near me” searches have grown by over 500% in the last five years. Real estate agents see the same trend with phrases like “homes for sale in [neighborhood]” and contractors dominate with “emergency plumber near me.” Yet 56% of local businesses still haven’t claimed their Google Business Profile. That’s like opening a beautiful restaurant and forgetting to unlock the front door.
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