Domain Name Aftermarket

The domain name aftermarket is a marketplace in the form of a website, where domain owners can list their domains and buyers can purchase them. Think of it as an eBay for domainers.

Aftermarket Charges

The company that runs the aftermarket usually charges the seller a portion of the sale price. There are many different pricing models, however this one is the most common. Typically buyers do not pay any fees, but they do have to register with the aftermarket provider.

Quite often, the aftermarket provider allows the seller to add optional features to increase the exposure of their listed domain name.

What Should I Buy?

That's the big question! It depends on how much money you have and what your own risk profile is.

For example, if you run an ecommerce site selling widgets and you happen to come across a widget domain name that has traffic coming to it, you should consider buying it. Why? Because you could divert the traffic to your main widget site. This practice is often cheaper and more effective than advertising. Not only could it increase your sales, customer lists etc.. but you have an asset at the end of it!

Who Are Some Reputable Aftermarket Providers?

Both Sedo and Afternic are good places to start.

When visiting an aftermarket website, use the search box to enter a keyword that you have an interest in. You will then get a list showing the domains for sale that include your keyword. If you are interested in a domain from the list, bid on it and try to negotiate with the owner of the domain.

Before making an offer you should study the market in detail. You do not want to overpay but you also do not want to bid too low because you may not even get a reply from the seller. Some aftermarket providers such as Sedo, give the domain name owner to cut off negotiations, so bid too low, expecting that it will be a lengthy negotiation process.