Hi everyone

I have recently come across a domain name I wish to use as my business website. Although, I have found it is registered to someone else but it is currently not being used.

I figure it is a waste not to used when I have this creative idea for it.

I have found the registered owners email and have kindly send off an email to see if he is willing to part with it.. I am expecting him to start talking dollars as he has been siting on it since the year 2000. What are my options here, if I know I definately want this name? Some input would be great.

thanks
(jasmine)

Hi Jasmine,
It's pretty common for people (and companies) to sit on domains for ages.
We've negotiated for a few that we wanted - some successfully, some were just too expensive.
The only thing you can do is get him to make you a deal - it's owned, so totally up to this guy what he does with it.

You can always try to appeal to his sense of humanity with a nice story about who you are and why you want the name - ask him what he wants for it...and go from there.

Otherwise, you can sign up at GoDaddy (for a fee) to have the name registered to you in the event he lets it go (which does happen but is a gamble, and you don't get your money back if he never does drop the URL. Plus, you're then just waiting)

Finally, you could always come up with a variation, go for the .net, .biz instead of the .com

Hope that helps and good luck getting the name you want! I know it can be so hard when you find one you like and it's gone...

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Maybe I'm a pessimist, but I wouldn't even bother trying to get the name and would immediately start looking for alternatives. You might get lucky and the owner could let it go for a reasonable amount, but considering the person has sat on it since 2000, you'll have to figure at least (very least) $80 when you can get a new name for about $10.

I probably shouldn't post when I'm exhausted - I turn into Debbie-Downer. (SNL reference for those who don't know)

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Jeanne
NowAssistingYou.com
Virtual Assistant :: Web/Blog Design & Hosting :: Writer

Thanks for the input.

I will wait and see what the return email says and go from there.

Somehow I feel the light switched has just come on for me, in regards to the fast paced world of business domains on the net. It has made me realise you need to pounce on opportunity and if you have an idea you need to run with it. The domain name might be taken but there are still some good ones out there that could become an investment.. Something I shall add to the business plan : )