Looking for an alternative to eSyndi Cat

[draggar]

eSyndi cat (free) is missing a lot of things I'd like to see sadly and I do not have the funds to invest in a paid software package (I don't even know if this will take off or not).

Are there other free options out there?

What I think eSyndicat is missing:
You cannot put images in the listing.

You cannot preview the listing before submitting it.

The user CP isn't that great - no easy "add listing" in the CP but "suggest listing" in the top banner.

No auto-approving listings for certain people (proven people who will not spam but need to change / add listings).

Same with changes

User levels would be nice.

Paid submissions are not needed (I'm debating over paid "featured" listings, though).

I need to easily edit the coding to add in ads, pictures, etc.. (something like ad-rotate in WP would be very nice, too!).

Please remember - I do not know how well this project will do so I do not want to spend any money into it. I have contacts in the niche who can get people to sign up, and as it goes (and if it does well) I can reconsider a paid version and upgrading the site.

[stock_post]

draggar: did you try PHPLD free version?
-- That is one comes to my mind.

The problem i have with PHPLD free version is spam...

I am abandoning the free version of PHPld sites..

eSynidicat, I did not check the free version - Have unlimited license.

I like eSynidicat support - those support guys are "The Best".
I sent money to Simon to take them to Lunch twice.
Never seen support as good as eSyndicat.

[draggar]

What do you mean by spam? They spam me or all the people who sign up?

I don't mind receiving spam - gMail has a great spam filter.

I'm sure the paid versions of eSyndicat has a lot more than the free version I just don't want to put money into a project that might not have the support of the community.

Edit: I'm not too crazy about PHPLD either. I guess I can't be too picky with my budget. :(

[stock_post]

May be time to open you pockets!

[draggar]

May be time to open you pockets!

Sure, what can you do for a pea-sized ball of lint and some dog hair?

I'm just tired of spending $$$ in projects that go nowhere.

[stock_post]

In that case why not go for a mini site, instead of directory?

[draggar]

While that would be a great idea the nich is made up of many small clubs across the US, Canada, and other countries.

There is no "parent' organization even though there has been plans and talks for one. The domain would be great for the parent organization and it is perfect for a directory.

Also, the people in this niche are cheap (as per several of my contacts in the niche - including them).

I'll weigh out my options and see what may be a good way to go.

[FSNet]

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