Bad idea - dropping cards or other material in mailboxes - unless they have a stamp - is illegal. The post office can get very S%*@@Y about this.

The networking idea is OK. Ditto for giving some type of special offer for new customers. Also, check around to see if there are any home improvement trade shows or small business expo's. It's a good way to get in front of a lot of people without spending a ton of money.

Check out the "Homes for sale" section of the classified ads. Look for homes being advertised as fixer-uppers, "needs TLC", or "as-is". A call to the home owner could get you some work. Explain to the seller that a more desirable property can sell faster and for a higher price.

Look around for a local senior citizen club. Offer to speak (and provide refreshments) at the next meeting. You can probably get their attention if you focus on how they can lower their utility bills by insulating their home properly.

There are still some homes being sold. If Realtors are not a great source of leads right now, try contacting home inspectors - they get paid to spot problems.

Good Luck,

Steve Patrick