How to Buy a Domain That Is Taken
Millions of websites exist, and if you are looking to start your very own website, chances are that the domain name that you had in mind is long gone and has already been claimed by another savvy entrepreneur. Although you could change the suffix of your desired domain name to .net, .org. or .biz, or simply add a hyphen, there are times when you would rather just buy a domain that is taken instead of changing the name slightly. If this is the case, here are some helpful tips.
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Instructions
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Know your options. Like any other property, a domain name can be sold, bought or auctioned. If the domain name you so desperately desire is already owned by someone else, when you go to register it, you won't be able to do so because it will say "Taken." Since this is the case, you'll need to look up who owns the domain name. This can be done directly from some registrars by clicking the "Who Is" link. If this is not possibly, you'll have to visit "Who Is" directly.
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Write down the registration information. Once you get to the "Who Is" website, make a note of who owns the domain, when the registration expires as well as the contact information. You will then want to visit the domain address to see if the site is established or simply parked. If the site is parked, the owner might be more open to selling it to you than if he is running his primary business on that particular domain.
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Discover the value of the domain name. Next, you'll need to figure out how much it is worth. There are many sites that provide an automated evaluation service for free (or a small cost) however if you want an individualized quote based on Alexa ranking, estimated traffic or Google page rank, you will likely have to hire a domain broker.
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Try your luck. After you have determined a reasonable price, you will need to contact the owner directly and make a reasonable offer. Another option is to hire an online domain name broker to make the offer on your behalf. Keep in mind that if you choose this route, additional fees may be involved for your broker's services. Another option is to wait until the domain name expires and then attempt to snatch it up before the previous owner renews or another owner purchases it. Keep in mind that sometimes domain names are put on hold and are only released when the original owner is unable to pay the fees or is late in doing so.
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In conclusion, there are many ways that you can buy a domain name that is already taken. Simply follow the above mentioned tips and you could be the owner of your dream domain name.
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