Every lead buyer eventually faces the same question: pay more for an exclusive lead, or pay less for a shared one? The honest answer depends on your speed, your close rate and your budget.
What is a shared lead?
A shared lead is sold to more than one buyer, often up to a set cap. The prospect may receive several calls, so the first agent to reach them usually has the advantage. Shared leads are cheaper per lead but need faster follow-up.
What is an exclusive lead?
An exclusive lead is sold to one buyer only. The prospect hears from a single agency, which usually improves contact rates and the quality of the conversation. You pay a premium for that.
Price difference
| Program | Shared to exclusive range |
|---|---|
| Auto insurance | $24 – $64 |
| Homeowners insurance | $28 – $76 |
| Medicare / senior health | $40 – $96 |
| Solar | $90 – $220 |
| Home improvement | $36 – $90 |
When shared leads make sense
- You can call within a few minutes, every time.
- You have a high-volume team and a repeatable script.
- Your margin per sale is modest and cost control matters most.
When exclusive leads make sense
- Your average sale is large (solar, Medicare, high-premium policies).
- Your team has limited capacity and cannot race competitors.
- You want a cleaner brand experience for the prospect.
Compare on cost per sale, not cost per lead
A $64 exclusive lead that closes at 15% costs about $427 per sale. A $24 shared lead that closes at 4% costs $600 per sale. Run your own numbers and let the data decide. Many buyers run both side by side for 30 days.
You can price both options instantly on our order page.
Frequently asked questions
Are exclusive leads always better?
Not always. They cost more, so they only win if your close rate improves enough to lower your cost per sale.
How many buyers receive a shared lead?
It varies by vendor. Always ask for the maximum number of buyers per lead in writing.
Ready to see your price?
Choose a lead program or an hourly service, get an instant estimate and receive a branded PDF quote by email.
Order leads ↗General educational information, not legal, financial or compliance advice. Prices shown are indicative ranges; final rates are confirmed in writing.
