Optimize the category page or a content page?

[JohanMattisson]

Hi,

We wish to start ranking on a specific keyword ("log house prices" in italian). We have two options on what pages we should optimize for this keyword:

1. A long content page (1000+ words with images)
2. Log houses category page, optimized for the keyword (we have 50+ houses on this page, together with a short price summary).

I would think that we have better chances with ranking with option nr.2 , but then we can't use that page for ranking with a more short-tail keyword (like "log houses").

What would you suggest? Is there maybe a third option for this?

[MattJanaway]

The most important thing to think about here is your visitors and not the search engines.

Imagine being a customer and searching for "log house prices". Chances are you will want to see a list of prices. This lends itself to the category page perfectly. I would imagine that seeing an article or content page would have a higher bounce rate and will most certainly have a lower conversion rate (for this keyword at least).

Remember that there is no reason not to have a nice bit of content on the category page if it adds value to your visitors.

With regards to the term "log houses", this could be used for a more generic page which covers your entire range. This decision should be based on how much time you have to spend on the website, your resources and more importantly, the competition for the keyword. If you feel like you can rank for that term instead of log house prices then go ahead and give it a go... It will be harder though, that's for sure.

Matt