We have created classified software for real estate market. We could say that software is now ready for additional niche markets. Markets that we are intend to market: car/bike, boats, pets etc
It is made in PHP and revision tracking is done through the Git. We are trying to find a solution so we can easily manage new applications. Since they will be based on same framework/solution most of the files will be shared between each application, but some will differ. We update a lot so it would be time consuming to check each revision in all software versions. Branching is not good idea, but if we create new repositories we need to find system to manage files that are shared and those specific to each version. Thanks.
I’d say that for a classifieds type system I’d go for a core content system that gives you basic abilities like creating custom fields, categories, and other classifications. The core system would then be enough to run a general classified type site.
To extend into niche areas, eg real estate I’d then go down the addon module approach that enhances the system by creating new content channels and provides niche specific custom fields and classifications. You could then use the addon method to provide facilities for other specialist niches, then using several addons you could create sites with a mixture of content channels.
Another way would be to provide a core system that allows as many channels, custom field types, multiple category groups and classifications as you need to built any sort of classifieds site, so a developer has totally free reign with how the content and site structure is built.