Starting a classified ads website can be a profitable business but competing with the industry leaders is the most challenging one. If you are new to this industry then you need a beginner’s guide to understand the business that is carried out through a classified website.
We can guide you all about how to start a classified website with simple steps and will let you know how to monetize your classified platform. Get ready to start a classified website that will possess all essential features and also decisive monetizing weapons to beat the competition.
What is a classified website?
A classified website is an online portal that allows users to sell and buy products from their nearby location. Products are classified and organized and will let users search and find them easily.
This is the traditional marketing strategy that was used in newspapers where you will find a separate page for classified columns. Readers can find product ads posted in those columns and can contact the seller directly and buy them.
The same process is carried out but through a classified ads website. The platform will not hold any responsibility for the quality of the product. The buyer needs to check all necessary details and buy from the seller.
How to start a classified website business?
Here comes the cost-effective solution to creating a classified website with a few simple steps. Just like any other online portal, you need to choose a domain name and a reliable hosting service. Again you need to choose your target audience and do market research. We will skip all these points as they are common.
Let us get into details on features that are to be integrated with your classified website. These are the one that is going to differentiate a classified website from other ordinary websites.
Embed your classified website with an advanced search system
The core aspect that will create a better user experience is having an advanced search system. Every classified platform is supposed to have multiple product categories. It will be difficult for a user to search for a particular product without an advanced search system.
The advanced search system will let users use keywords to search and can let them filter products according to type, price, location, and many more. Through a series of filtering, the user will get the most relevant product as the search result that will benefit him to get into the product page instantly.
Integrate Google maps
Users who approach a classified website are more cautious to find products in their nearby location. They will not show interest in products that are far from their location as they do not want to spend money on traveling. In some cases, they may need to hire a separate vehicle to carry the product to their place which will charge high if the location of the seller is so far.
To avoid these inconveniences, your classified website should be integrated with Google maps which will give perfect direction to all users. With the help of the map, users can easily identify sellers who are nearby their location and can contact them and buy products. This will reduce their traveling time and also will save them money.
Build a detailed Ad Page
This page needs more attention when you start a classified website. Users need to get convinced about the product they are searching for. A clear product description is needed that will explain the product type, size, quality, and many more. As customers cannot touch and feel the product, the page should give the same experience through its content.
You can enhance your product page by adding relevant product images. You can also make use of videos that will explain your products. Product pages with videos get 67% more audience and get a 45% greater conversion rate. Make sure you optimize your images and videos and maintain the quality as well.