Direct Messaging vs Match Messaging

Matchouse offers two primary ways to communicate with other users: Direct Messaging and Match Messaging. While both serve to connect people, they work differently based on how the interaction begins and what permissions are in place.

Last updated 8 months ago

This guide explains each method, when they’re used, and how they impact your ability to connect, chat, and transact on the platform.

1. 📨 What is Direct Messaging?

Direct Messaging happens when a user proactively reaches out to another profile or listing — without being part of a formal match yet.

🔑 Key Features:

You message a public listing, profile, or service offer directly.
Common for tenants, buyers, and service seekers.
Works immediately without needing lead access (depending on role).
Starts a new one-on-one chat thread with the recipient.

✅ Example Use Cases:

A buyer finds a house and messages the estate agent.
A tenant sees a rental and contacts the landlord directly.
A user visits a service professional’s profile and sends a message to ask for availability.

2. 🤖 What is Match Messaging?

Match Messaging is triggered by the smart matching system, where users are automatically connected based on shared criteria such as service type, location, and intent.

🔍 Key Features:

Triggered when there's a verified match between users.
Used heavily for service requests and off-market listings.
Requires lead access for estate agents and professionals to unlock the chat.
Built to prioritise high-intent connections based on profile, location, and timing.

💡 How it works:

You post a service request (e.g. “Need an electrician in Birmingham”).
Professionals matched by service and location receive the request.
Interested pros purchase the lead (if required) and join the match chat.
You collaborate within a dedicated thread — no spam, no cold messages.

3. ⚖️ Key Differences at a Glance

		Feature Direct Messaging Match Messaging
Who initiates	User (manually from listing/profile)	System (based on match settings)
Visibility required	Must be a public listing or profile	Can include off-market and hidden requests
Lead access needed	❌ Usually not required	✅ Required for agents/pros to unlock chat
Most used by	Buyers, Tenants, and Service Seekers	Service Pros and Estate Agents responding to leads
Use case	Contacting listings or profiles manually	Responding to incoming leads from system

4. 🧩 Real Scenarios

🔹 Direct Messaging Example

A tenant is browsing public rental listings and finds a flat in Manchester. They click “Message” and send a note to the landlord asking for a viewing. The chat opens instantly.

🔹 Match Messaging Example

A landlord posts a job: “Need a gas safety certificate this weekend.”
Matchouse automatically matches them with 3 nearby gas engineers. One of them buys the lead and joins the chat thread to quote and confirm the booking.

5. 🧠 Why It Matters

Using the right type of messaging helps you:

Stay relevant (by only chatting with users who match your intent)
Reduce spam (as professionals only join if they're truly interested)
Move faster (as matched leads are often pre-qualified)

Matchouse’s system is built to keep conversations purposeful — whether you're listing a property or hiring a pro.

❓FAQs

Can I message any user on Matchouse directly?
You can message users who have public listings or profiles. However, for hidden or service request listings, you’ll only get access if you're matched and eligible.

Do I need credits to message someone?
Not always. Direct messages to public listings are free. Match Messaging, however, may require lead credits (especially for professionals and agencies).

Can I switch from match chat to direct chat?
No — each conversation is tied to its source. Match chats remain grouped under the lead or request they originated from.

💡 Final Tip

Whether you're messaging directly or through a match, make your profile stand out. A verified, complete profile increases your chances of getting replies and winning work.