Negotiating with URL sellers

Posted by Laura Bergells

November 16, 2006

I have received quite a few inquiries this month about buying domain names from willing sellers. The chief question seems to be “How much should I pay? What’s fair?”

Here is what I recommend:

Before you buy: do the research.

Perhaps this article from Inc Magazine can offer some insight on how to negotiate with willing sellers of a domain names.

But what if you are dealing with someone is holding your trademarked name for ransom? A read-up on the Anti-CyberSquatting Consumer Protection Act can be most helpful to you.

Further — there are a number of other key factors to consider when arriving at a fair price for your beloved domain name. The length of the name, as well as its recognition, memorability, range of potential uses, ease of use, emotional connetion, competition, etc. — these are all important factors that need to be considered before you decide on a fair price. Getting a domain name appraisal can provide you with some profound insight.

In brief: arm yourself with information before you enter into negotiations! And hiring a lawyer can help you when it comes time to write a solid contract for obtaining your desired name.