I have heard that it takes a considerable effort to start a directory, and to differentiate yourself from the pack etc., My question is how much is a realistic estimation of is possible to make after 6 months? Lets say for example a page rank 5 general directory. What have others experiences been.. the range of what can be expected in earnings whether by selling links or advertisements etc., Adsense dosent seem to be part of this equation...or does it? Thanks!
it takes no effort at all to 'start' a directory. that's why you see so many out there. expect to make nothing in your first six months. i hope this answers you without all the hoopla inbetween.
What mean to ask is, after the 6 month mark. I am aware of the fact there are so many, and that one should not expect to make anything at first, but some have become profitable at a certain point. What are realistic expectations, what are others making as an example.
i agree with an0n 100% i would even bump that first six months up to possibly a year unless your site is very unique.
Expectations and goals are something that YOU, the owner should be making, not asking for. You will get varied responses from each and every individual. Because someone is turning a profit while the other isnt, does not mean that you will be on the same road. In the end it is you who decides the fate.
This is not a question that anyone I know of will answer. Each directory stands on it's own merits and the amount of energy, promotion, and uniqueness the owner puts into it. Just work hard, build a great directory and watch the success of others in the field. When you achieve your own success, you'll answer this question for yourself.
Dont focus on the money when creating your directory at this point. focus on putting your energy, time and resources into building it the best you can and you will get some income from it.
If you have a PageRank of 5 then there's a good chance of making something, but not anything of a great reward, but still the higher of a pr you are the more people will do business with you. As far as just starting out with a starting PR of 0 then 6 months would rake you in somewhere of $20 to $100, now that is also depends on how you market and promote your site. High PR, a great amount of Backlinks and being Indexed by Google will play a great significant role on how well you do with your directory. An stablished directory is around PR 6-7 this site generate a great revenue, but also they needed to spend a great amount of money to get where they at and to keep that position they still need to put some of that back what they make. 6 months is relatively short in time frame, you'll need to look up ahead of two years or more to really appreciate what you've work hard for. For myself I am waiting for 2010
If you targeted to become a high quality directory you will make $0 or even -$3,000 on six months time. If you are in for the quick bucks you can make $500 or more on a six months period.
First I wanted to thank everyone for their honest replies to my query. I should mention my MO is not soley based on monetary return, it is likely I want to embark on such a journey for the same reasons any of you may have done. I kind of see it as one part of the big picture. Building ones own network as it were. Of course past the get rich quick schemes that promise vast riches..its rubbish. I wanted to have a realistic outlook of its potential, what others may be making, becuase honestly parking domains seems to passive to me, and I wanted to develope as I see it more rewarding in the end.