Do keywords in a domain make a huge impact on SEO or ranking higher in google/yahoo searches? I believe they do, right?
No they don't. For example, Zapatos.com use to be just that, Zapatos, yet they would regularily outrank other 'major' sites for Shoe/Boot/Footwear related keyword phrases. They've since bought shoes.com but I think this is a valid analogy. What makes a site rank high is 1) Quality Unique Content and 2) Quality In-Bound links that use targeted Anchor Text for the keywords you are trying to rank for. This is the case with Google, I know Bing takes the domain name more into consideration. So to sumerize, keywords in a domain may make a difference, but they certainly do not have a "huge impact"
Yes but - you've missed a significant point - In-Bound links that use targeted Anchor Text - if your keyword is in your domain, you've got a head start on this - even without a specific anchor text. I'm not a fan of the clunky "keyword shoved into domain name anyhow" and for a long-term project would choose a memorable 'brand' name everytime - BUT it's just misleading to say it doesn't have a large impact. And it's why big brands do buy the generic domain name - you've quoted shoes.com, you can also look at toysrus buying toys.com - it was worth $5million to them
Magda and I said pretty much the exact same thing, so you can believe either one of us, or both. @magda: You have a good point about having a 'head start' but what if that part of the domain name isn't used at all in the anchor text? You'd be getting a link minus the important keyword.
Well you were more on the side of it doesnt make too much of a difference, while he was saying it can make a difference, so you guys weren't exactly AGREEING with eachother now were you?
IMHO a site that has quality inbound links with target anchor text will always outrank those that don't. Even sites that have the keyword in the url.
Blog Comments, Directory Submissions and using the B.S.T. forum are 3 ways you can get target anchor text for your inbound links.