How to Turn Off "Direct Business Search" in Google LSA

Hey real estate agents, it's time to decide if you want your Google LSA to show when someone searches for you by name.

In other words, do you want to run an ad and pay to connect with someone who's already specifically looking for you?

This "feature" (cough, cough) is on by default in your Local Services Ads account. If a buyer or seller is already looking for you, Google is going to start inserting an ad (your LSA) at the top to entice people to click the ad instead of visiting your website.

Why? Because Google needs more $$$ and wants to charge you for branded searches. 😡

If you want to turn this feature off, and you should if you're happy with what buyers and sellers see when they search for your name or business name, here's what to do:

1. Go to the Profile & Budget section of your LSA account

2. Look for the Settings card

3. Next to "Direct Business Search," move the slider to gray, which is the "off" position.

It should look like that.

I'd normally say turn this "feature" off, but if you're not happy with what ranks organically for your name, you might consider letting this ad run. 😬🤷‍