Key Features to Include in Classified App Like OLX
By idea2appAdmin
April 1, 2025
Table of Contents
Today, people are looking to buy or sell the items they have accumulated over time. Classified mobile apps allow buyers to purchase, sell, or lease a variety of products, including gadgets, automobiles, furniture, and pets. Developing a classified app like OLX is a fantastic idea because it lets you complete everything with just one click.
One such app is the OLX app, which offers a wide range of new and exciting products to try daily. It is among the top buy-and-sell applications. Users can sell their goods at a chosen price and purchase necessary items at reasonable prices.
The global online classified advertisement market is predicted to reach the $25 billion mark by the year 2025 due to the rising volume of transactions. According to a research study, 75% of users utilize buy-and-sell apps to purchase items at low costs and sell items for profit margins. The potential for profit is the primary reason these apps have become so popular.
The data collected from these platforms demonstrates the advantages of classified apps. They show that these apps are a game changer for business owners, providing an opportunity for business expansion.
This is the ideal time for entrepreneurs to develop classified app like OLX and achieve greater success. In this article, we will explore the essential features to include in classified apps like OLX.
A classified app can be described as an internet-based marketplace that allows buyers to purchase and sell refurbished or used items. Products are advertised and made available to customers based on their geographical location. Users can very easily search and look for what they need or browse by category (electronics, automobiles, furniture, books, etc.) on their smartphones. All of this is done through a mobile buy-and-sell app.
The operation of classified apps like OLX is quite simple. These apps provide customers with an online platform where they can list the products they wish to sell. Listings are organized by location and category to ensure that customers see only relevant items.
Sellers must include prices, descriptions, and details about the products so that buyers can learn more about them. Listed items are searchable directly through the search bar. Anyone interested in purchasing an item can search by category and easily find what they are looking for.
Classified mobile app development is a fantastic asset for businesses looking to increase their customer base as well as increase their online presence. While classified apps have been in use for several years, many people are still unaware of their functionality and benefits.
The biggest advantage of creating and using a classified app is that it easily enables you to communicate instantly with your target audience via mobile phones or desktop computers. You can track the number of visitors to your site, how often they return (or if they don’t), and their locations. Additionally, you can view your ads from anywhere. This data helps you understand the exact position of your business in the market.
Users can browse a variety of items available for purchase on the classified app and decide whether to buy them. You can also post ads on the classified website to reach a wider audience.
You can list your goods or services for sale through the classifieds site online. These platforms offer a broad selection of categories to choose from. Although they are simple to navigate, classified websites are highly effective for marketing products and services.
Classified apps provide an excellent platform for businesses looking to market their products and services. They allow you to reach a large number of customers actively searching for specific items or services you offer. You can also choose from various categories, providing additional options for potential buyers.
With a vast number of users, you can easily connect with people interested in your offerings, helping you reach a larger audience. Using the app as a hub for consumers and potential marketers can also significantly reduce marketing costs.
Classified apps make it easy for businesses to expand rapidly, as there’s no need to worry about the complexities of creating and setting up an online store or website. Anyone looking to start a business or market products or services online can do so without dealing with technical challenges like setting up an online shopping cart or website.
In this part of the article, we’ll cover the most important components of a classified application. Let’s take a closer look:
An efficient and user-friendly UI/UX is the primary component of a successful classified app like OLX. It’s crucial to incorporate features that are simple, intuitive, and quick to use. A well-designed interface not only increases user engagement but also helps keep customers active throughout their experience with the app.
A robust classified app like OLX allows the owner to track transactions using specific metrics. By generating detailed performance reports, the owner can identify high-demand products or services and establish trustworthy merchants. This helps in crafting the most effective messages to attract users and benefit the business.
Both reviews as well as ratings play a significant role in influencing buying decisions. In fact, they are among the key factors that affect purchase choices, alongside product pricing. Including user-generated reviews and ratings in the app enhances credibility and helps boost sales, making it an essential feature for classified apps like OLX.
A buy-and-sell classified app like OLX must be supported by strong data security protocols to protect customer information. Since these platforms are common targets for cybercriminals, robust security measures are vital. Without proper data protection, the app owner risks exposing both customers and the business to fraudulent payment schemes.
Publishing the perfect classified ad is crucial as it simplifies the user experience. A typical classified ad consists of three key elements: the headline, the description, and the contact details. Providing a simple, easy-to-follow tutorial on how to create these components accurately and optimize the ad for SEO can be a valuable feature to integrate into your application.
To attract users to your mobile app, features play a crucial role. Here are the key features to consider when developing a classified app like OLX.
Registration is the first step that leaves an impression on users. It should be simple and quick, as it’s one of the core functions of a classified app. A straightforward registration process helps users sign up and access the app without hassle. Keep it simple by asking for an email address, username, and password. You might also consider allowing users to sign up via their existing Facebook or Twitter accounts.
This is a very powerful search feature that enables app users to find items quickly. The search bar should include filters for categories, price ranges, location, and other relevant criteria based on the marketplace. This helps users locate what they’re looking for without wasting time.
Enable users to communicate directly with sellers through an in-app chat feature. This allows them to negotiate prices and discuss product details, fostering trust between buyers and sellers.
Use user data and behavior to recommend relevant ads based on their interests. Personalized suggestions can boost user engagement and increase sales, as buyers are more likely to purchase items they’re interested in.
Allow users to save their favorite listings for future reference or comparison. This feature helps them keep track of items they’re interested in and make informed decisions.
Integrate social media sharing options to let users share listings with their Facebook contacts. This increases visibility and helps drive more traffic to the app, as users may share listings with friends and family, expanding the app’s reach.
Keep users informed about new items, updates on saved listings, and exclusive deals. Notifications help ensure users don’t miss out on opportunities, encouraging them to return to the app regularly.
Allow buyers to rate and review sellers and products. Positive reviews build trust and help new customers make informed decisions. Sellers are encouraged to maintain high standards to receive good feedback.
Provide sellers with an easy-to-use interface to create, edit, and manage their listings. Sellers can add descriptions, select categories, and upload photos to make their listings more appealing. Listings with the high-quality photos as well as detailed descriptions attract more buyers.
Enable sellers to interact with buyers through messaging. This feature allows them to respond to inquiries, negotiate deals, and arrange transactions without needing to meet in person.
Sellers can track and manage orders, including order status, customer details, and shipping information. This ensures a smooth buying and selling process, improving customer satisfaction.
Provide sellers with analytics to track sales performance, monitor active and completed transactions, and analyze user behavior. This data helps sellers make informed business decisions.
Implement strong and secure payment gateways to protect both buyers and sellers. Secure transactions can greatly reduce the risk of fraud as well as ensure smooth payments, whether buyers pay upfront or upon delivery.
The admin dashboard displays key information, including user data, orders, payments, product details, and more. It helps admins manage the app efficiently without having to navigate through multiple sections.
Admins can view user profiles, monitor activity, and manage registrations. This feature helps ensure compliance with app guidelines and allows admins to block inappropriate users when necessary.
Admins can review all financial transactions to detect fraudulent activities and ensure secure payments. This helps maintain the integrity of the app’s financial system.
Admins monitor product pricing to ensure fairness. They can adjust prices when needed and verify seller pricing to maintain competitive rates in the marketplace.
Admins have full control over the product inventory. They can add, edit, or remove listings that don’t comply with app policies, keeping the platform clean and relevant.
Admins review user-generated content, including ratings and feedback, to ensure authenticity. Fake reviews or inappropriate language can be flagged and removed.
Admins track the status of each order to ensure timely delivery. They can intervene in case of delays or disputes to maintain customer satisfaction.
Admins review product images to ensure they meet quality standards and accurately represent the items being sold. This helps prevent fraudulent listings.
Admins use tools to detect and block spam, fake accounts, and misleading listings, keeping the platform safe and secure for all users.
Sellers can submit ad requests to promote their products. Admins review these requests to ensure they meet app guidelines before approval.
Admins manage all app content, including banners, homepage sections, and promotions. Regular updates helps keep the classified app fresh and engaging.
Admins analyze app performance, user engagement, popular products, and revenue trends. This data supports informed decision-making for future app improvements.
Admins provide customer support to address issues faced by buyers and sellers. A strong support system helps build trust and user loyalty.
Once you receive positive feedback from users after the MVP stage, it’s time to consider adding more advanced features in app like OLX. Here are some of the latest features you can implement in the development of a classified app like OLX:
Affiliate programs can be highly beneficial for acquiring more app users and increasing product sales. Unlike referrals, affiliates can share product links on social media, with friends, or even add banners to personal blogs or websites. When someone makes a purchase by clicking the affiliate link, the affiliate earns a commission.
GPS tracking keeps users informed about the status of their shipments, including approval, shipping, and delivery dates. This feature enhances customer engagement by providing real-time updates as well as ensuring transparency throughout the delivery process.
Social login enables app users to sign up and log in using their Google or Facebook accounts. This simplifies the registration process, which eliminates the need to remember multiple passwords as well as enhances the overall user experience, encouraging more sign-ups.
The AutoComplete Search feature helps users find what they’re looking for quickly by suggesting relevant options as they type. This user-friendly function enhances search efficiency and improves the overall app navigation.
For high-value items like laptops or smartphones, offering EMI options allows customers to pay in easy installments. Sellers can choose to accept EMI payments, making expensive products more accessible and attracting a larger customer base.
Phone number masking protects user privacy by allowing communication without revealing personal phone numbers. Both parties can talk via an anonymous number, ensuring security and confidentiality during calls.
Multilingual support enables users to select their preferred language when browsing the app. This feature improves user experience, especially for those who don’t speak the default language, making the app more accessible to a diverse audience.
Sellers can easily choose between standard and premium listings. Premium listings receive greater visibility, appearing at the top of the search results or in featured sections. This helps sellers attract more buyers quickly and boost sales.
Real-time analytics provide admins with insights into app performance. This feature tracks key metrics such as user acquisition, retention rates, and customer satisfaction, aiding data-driven decision-making for business growth.
A robust CMS allows app owners, service providers, and sellers to manage content effectively. Sellers can add detailed product descriptions, highlight special offers, and update promotions, ensuring that the app remains fresh and engaging for users.
If you successfully create a OLX classified apps, you’re halfway to achieving success. Before launching your classified mobile app development solution, it’s essential to understand the marketplace and customer needs. Here are the key steps to follow to develop a scalable solution for your app:
User demands and preferences are constantly evolving, so businesses must stay updated to succeed in the marketplace. Understanding these needs makes it easier to create a classified app. Conduct detailed or thorough research on your target audience and study current market trends to identify what users truly want.
Before starting the development process, create a strategic plan that addresses user needs, potential challenges, and solutions. Consider new features to include, team structure, technology stacks, and other critical factors. A well-structured plan, implemented step-by-step, is key to developing a top-rated app.
A classified app like OLX should be visually appealing to attract users. This can be achieved through attractive features and strong design elements. App designers should use CSS to enhance visibility and leverage various design tools to create an engaging user experience.
Develop the app with the help of an experienced classified app development company. Skilled professionals will ensure the app is built using the right technology stack. They will integrate essential and advanced features to differentiate your app from competitors.
During this phase, the app undergoes rigorous testing to identify and fix any issues. If bugs are found, they are addressed, and the testing process continues until the app is completely error-free. Once the app passes all tests, it’s ready to be launched in the market.
What’s the price for building a buy-sell OLX app? The cost of developing a classified ads site depends on several factors, including the app’s platform (Android, iOS, or both), design, UX/UI, and the expertise of classified app development company.
The cost varies based on the app’s complexity, features, and the development firm’s scope. Some companies charge based on the time their designers, developers, and testers spend on the project, while others charge according to the app’s features, platforms, and complexity.
For example, creating an app that allows users to search for classifieds may cost between $20,000 and $35,000. An alternative option, such as a classifieds mobile website or app, could cost between $15,000 and $20,000, although prices can vary higher depending on specific requirements. Understanding these factors is essential for estimating the overall cost of buy-sell app development.
There is a myriad of elements that affect cost of classified app development such as:
If you have more functionalities and features within the app the more features and functionalities, the longer time to build an app and higher the development costs. Therefore, it’s recommended to begin by creating those features you need, and then once the app starts receiving positive reviews from users, then you are able to add sophisticated capabilities.
If an app has more features than planned, developers will need to work harder. This extra work takes more time and resources, which means it will cost more money to build the app. So, having too many features can make the app more expensive to develop.
If you are planning to create an application that works on Android as well as iOS it is recommended to develop you should consider developing an app for both platforms. The Android version is less cost-effective. But, we recommend developing apps that work across platforms i.e. making use of a framework such as React Native. This will let you use the same codebase to create apps that work on both iOS as well as Android.
The most significant aspect that affects the price is the location of the app development company. The mobile app development team operating within North America or Eastern Europe can charge between $80-$120 for an hour. On the other hand, a mobile application development firm located in Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, Singapore etc. is charged between $25 and $40 per hour, but will deliver identical quality.
Creating a classified app like OLX is not easy. It needs a lot of planning, hard work, and smart decisions. Here are some of the main challenges faced when developing such an app.
The app should be easy to use. People of all ages will use it, so the design must be simple and clear. If the app is confusing, users will leave. Making the interface friendly and easy to navigate is a big challenge.
Users will share personal details like their name, phone number, and location. This information must be kept safe. Hackers may try to steal data. Developers need to add strong security features to protect users.
Classified apps handle a lot of data, such as ads, user profiles, and messages. Managing this data without slowing down the app is tricky. The app should work fast even when there are many users.
Getting people to download and use the app is hard. Many apps are available, so your app needs something special to attract users. Also, keeping users interested is a challenge. They should keep using the app regularly.
Some people post fake ads to cheat others. This can cause problems for users and harm the app’s reputation. Developers need to create systems to detect and stop fake ads.
If the app allows payments, making sure the payment system works smoothly and safely is important. Users should feel confident that their money is safe.
Many classified apps show ads based on the user’s location. This feature must work correctly, which can be hard because GPS signals can sometimes be weak or inaccurate.
As more people use the app, it must be able to handle the growing number of users and ads. This means the app’s servers and systems need to be strong and flexible to grow with the app.
There are laws about how user data can be collected and used. Developers need to follow these laws. They also have to make sure the app is legal in different countries.
Apps need updates to fix bugs, add new features, and improve performance. This requires time, effort, and resources.
Classified app like OLX are highly sought after. Many people want to market used or unwanted items, while others look to cut costs by purchasing second-hand products. This is why many classified apps are thriving today. If you’re wondering whether this is a great business idea, the answer is yes.
A user-friendly app is crucial for efficient buying and selling. It should have an intuitive interface, a robust search function, easy listing options, and a user dashboard. To ensure the best experience, choose an app with a simple design, user-friendly features, and secure payment options.
A user-centric classified app is a platform that enables app users to buy as well as sell items and services locally or globally. These apps focus on providing a smooth, user-friendly experience, enabling users to post ads, find items, and connect with potential buyers or sellers easily.
The development time for an app like OLX can vary based on several factors. Typically, it takes between 2 to 7 months or even longer, depending on the app’s complexity and features.
Developing a classified app like OLX involves addressing various key factors. User security is the top priority, requiring strong security measures and verification processes. Secure payment gateways are essential to ensure safe transactions. Additionally, building user trust and credibility is vital for the app’s success.
Classified mobile apps generate revenue through several channels, including:
Paid Listings: Charging the app users to promote or feature their listings.
Premium Memberships: Offering subscription plans or completely ad free experiences.
Advertisements: Displaying ads within the classified app.
Transaction Fees: Charging a share or percentage of the transaction amount when users sell items through the app.
In-App Purchases: Selling digital products or premium content.