What Is “Free Text Search”? #
Free Text Search, also known as Keyword Search, refers to using the search bar on the PropertyGuru website without selecting options from the drop-down filters.
Instead of narrowing the results through predefined criteria (like location, property type, etc.), property seekers can type in their own search terms—such as “near Somerset MRT” or “pet-friendly condo”—to find relevant listings.
Note: Fewer than 5% of property seekers use free text search. Most use the drop-down filters, which tend to show more refined and accurate results.
To rank your listing high in “Free text search” results, you first need to understand what is the unique selling points of your property are, and decide what keywords would best describe your listing.
For example: Near MRT 111 Somerset, Extended Kitchen, Fully Furnished, Near Regent Secondary School, Swimming Pool.
Then, have these keywords present in your listing details; in fields such as “headline“, “listing description“, “project name” or “address“.
How Does Free Text Search Work? #
PropertyGuru uses advanced search technology—similar to those used by Netflix and Google—to match keywords to listings.
Here’s how it works:
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A property seeker types in a keyword (e.g., “fully furnished near Regent Secondary”).
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Our system assigns each listing a matching score, based on how closely the content of that listing aligns with the keyword.
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Listings are then ranked in descending order of matching score—the higher the score, the higher the listing appears in results.
How to Optimise Your Listing for Free Text Search #
To rank well in free text search, include relevant keywords in your listing—but naturally and meaningfully. Focus on your property’s unique selling points.
Example keywords: #
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Near MRT (e.g., “111 Somerset”)
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Fully Furnished
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Extended Kitchen
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Swimming Pool
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Near Regent Secondary School
These keywords should appear in any of the following listing fields:
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Headline
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Listing Description
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Project Name
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Address
Tip: Think about what property seekers might type when searching for a home like yours.
What Affects Free Text Search Ranking? #
Several factors can influence how your listing appears in free text search results:
| Factor | Influence |
|---|---|
| Keyword Placement | Keywords in the headline or project name carry more weight than in longer descriptions. |
| Keyword Frequency | Keywords should be used naturally. Avoid excessive repetition. |
| Content Relevance | Listings that align well with the intent behind the search terms will score higher. |
⚠️ Important: Avoid keyword spamming. Repeating keywords unnaturally can lead to your listing being flagged or suspended.
Does Boost or Repost Affect Free Text Search Ranking? #
No. Boosted or reposted listings do not automatically rank higher in Free Text Search results.
Listings are ranked purely based on matching score.
However, when multiple listings share the same score, the ranking priority is:
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Boosted listings
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Reposted listings
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Regular listings
Free text search is a powerful feature—but only a small portion of seekers use it. By strategically placing relevant keywords in your listing, you improve your chances of appearing in these results.
For general enquiries, please reach out to our Customer Service at the following:
- Phone: 6238 5971 (Mon – Fri 9am – 6pm, closed on PH)
- Email: custcare@propertyguru.com.sg
For technical assistance, please message us via WhatsApp at 9298 1629 (Mon – Fri 9am – 6pm, closed on PH) and we will get back to you within 1 working day.