Unique Geo-targeted domains v. simple landing pages

[SearchParty]

I have a client with multiple locations in a central area.  Is it better to purchase unique geo-targeted domains i.g. DowntownTopekaPlumber.com and MidtownTopekaPlumber.com and create area specific splash pages with links back to the main site -OR - is it better to simply create landing pages on the main domain - www.GoodGuyPlumbing.com/DownttownTopekaPlumber?

[PsycheFashion]

Hi,

I would suggest keeping one domain and having landing pages within it. You want to focus on building your domain age and quality and if you proceed with multiple domains you may dilute this and not to mention give yourself more administrative work as well.

Hope this helps.

Mark

[MiriamEllis]

Hi SearchParty,

I definitely vote in favor of the latter - a single website with landing pages for each of the physical locations. With this method, the marketing you engage in will go toward building the authority of all locations. Mini sites with exact match domains tend to be candidates for thin and duplicate content, so I'm not a fan. Beyond this, I think they overly-complicate the scenario, when a single domain with strong content for each location keeps things simple for human visitors and the bots.