Selling Domain Names

drivelocity — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 22:57:31 +0000

As someone who is constantly trying to unload old domain names, I have a great interest in this topic, but not a lot of success. I’ve only sold one domain in my time and the buyer came to me directly. Essentially, they wanted to eliminate their competition, or where their competition advertised. I have purchased a fair number of domains using GoDaddy’s Auction service, which is convenient since they are my registrar of choice.

Top sites for selling domains (according to this survey):

Sedo 48%
Forums 14%
GoDaddy (TDNAM) 8%
SnapNames (Moniker) 7%
Afternic 6%

Domain Distribution Network, eBay, and domain newsletters each received less than 2%.

Other sites you can sell domain names on:

Top ten most valuable domain names (amount paid):

Sex.com $14 million 2006
Fund.com $9.9 million 2008
Porn.com $9 million 2007
Business.com $7.5 million 1999
Diamonds.com $7.5 million 2006
Beer.com $7 million 2004
Casino.com $5.5 million 2003
AsSeenOnTV.com $5.1 million 2000
Korea.com $5 million 2000
SEO.com $5 million 2007

Use an Escrow Service:

So, what do you do if you’re buying a high priced domain name, or want to sell a domain name directly to a buyer? I strongly suggest using an escrow service such as Moniker’s escrow service, or Escrow.com in order to protect yourself from fraud. They will facilitate the deal in which each party must agree to and complete each step prior to the transfer of domain and money taking place.

Domain Appraisal Service:

While the actual value of a domain is likely to be somewhere between the perceived value and an appraised value, an appraisal can be a valuable asset in garnering interest in a domain you are trying to sell. Your domain is only worth what someone is willing to pay and you could be in for a serious disappointment if you price your domain too high. Try using Moniker’s domain appraisal service to get an idea of where you stand. GoDaddy offers one as well.

drivelocity.com » Afternic

Selling Domain Names