Key highlights
- Learn how to research a taken domain’s value, history and legal status before contacting the current owner.
- Understand the step-by-step process for negotiating and securely buying a domain name from someone else.
- Know what to check in the domain’s past to avoid SEO risks, spam penalties or poor reputation in search results.
- Explore how Bluehost supports your search with tools like WHOIS lookup, domain search, backordering and free domains with hosting.
Creating a website is an exciting project, whether it’s for small business, blog or personal use. But what happens when your ideal domain is already taken?
With millions of domain names registered worldwide, it’s not unusual to discover that your perfect URL is already owned by someone else.
But here’s the good news: you can still buy a domain name that’s taken. In this expert guide, you’ll learn how to buy a domain name from someone, understand the process of researching ownership and see how to avoid common mistakes.
We’ll also show you how to evaluate premium domain names, work with secure escrow services and explore alternatives like expired domain names or different extensions if your first choice isn’t available.
Let’s start by understanding why having the right domain name is essential for your website’s success.
Why does your website need a domain?
A domain name is your website’s digital address. Just like a street address for a shop or office, a domain tells people where to find you online. For example, Bluehost.uk uses a UK domain extension (.uk) to indicate location and trust.
Every website needs a domain to establish its online identity. Without it, navigating the web would be nearly impossible. There are various TLDs like .com, .uk, .gov, .org, .edu and .net, each serving different purposes, allowing you to choose one that fits your brand.
When registering a domain, it’s usually for one year, so setting up automatic renewal is wise. This helps you maintain your online identity and avoid disruptions.
In essence, a domain name is a cornerstone of your online presence, providing credibility and accessibility.
Also read: Why Do I Need a Domain Name?
If your desired domain is already owned by someone else, don’t worry; domain negotiation tips can help you secure the right name for your business.
How to choose the perfect domain for your business?
Choosing the right domain name for your company is essential for branding and online visibility. A good domain enhances your brand image and can boost your search engine optimisation (SEO).
Take your time to pick a name that aligns with your business identity and is easy to share on social media. Ideally, your domain should be short, clear and relevant, three words or fewer is best.
It should be easy to type, pronounce and share across social media or marketing materials.
While .com domains are preferred for their familiarity, they are often the most sought after. If the .com version of your brand name is taken, consider alternatives through domain registrars, which can help you find suitable options.
Thinking about how to get a domain that is taken? If the perfect name is already registered, don’t give up. Many domain owners are open to negotiation it’s always worth reaching out. You can also browse domain marketplaces for premium domain names that are available for resale.
A strong domain can increase in value over time, making it a worthwhile investment. If your budget allows, securing the ideal domain today could benefit your branding and visibility long-term.
How to check if a domain name is available?
Before you can buy a domain, you need to find out whether it’s still available. A quick domain name search will tell you if your ideal domain is up for grabs or already registered.
Most web hosting companies also offer domain search and registration services. For example, you can run a domain name search through Bluehost. To check if your ideal domain is available, simply enter it in the search bar and click “Search.”
If the domain is available, you’ll have the option to purchase it. If it’s already registered, we will suggest similar domains that you can consider. You might also explore unique TLDs (top-level domains) that align with your brand.
Keep in mind: it’s smart to remain flexible. If you’re set on one name and it’s already taken, the owner has negotiating power, often leading to higher prices and slower access.
If you want to learn how to buy a domain name from someone, the next section will walk you through the process step by step.
What to consider before buying a domain name?
If you’re learning how to buy a domain name from someone or exploring how to get a domain that is taken, it’s important to evaluate more than just availability. Here’s what to keep in mind before making an offer or finalising your registration:
- Domain name relevance: Choose a domain name that aligns with your brand, business or website’s purpose. It should be easy to remember and reflect on the content or products you offer.
- Keyword research: Incorporate relevant keywords, if possible, as they can enhance your site’s visibility in search engines. However, prioritise readability and brandability over keyword stuffing.
- Domain extension: Select an appropriate domain extension (e.g., .com, .net, .org) that suits your goals. .com is widely recognised and trusted, but industry-specific extensions may be suitable for niche markets.
- Uniqueness: Ensure your chosen domain name is unique and not trademarked or copyrighted by someone else. Check for trademark conflicts to avoid legal issues.
- Domain length: Shorter domain names are easier to remember and type. Aim for brevity while maintaining clarity and relevance.
How to buy a domain name that is taken?
If your ideal website address is already registered, don’t worry, you can still buy it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to buy a domain name from someone safely and strategically, even if they’re not actively using it:
- Research the domain name’s value
- Check for trademark issues
- Find out who owns the domain
- Get the domain owner’s contact information
- Assess the domain’s history
- Begin negotiations with the domain owner
- Know exactly what you’re buying
- Use an escrow service to pay for the domain
- Transfer ownership of the domain
- Bonus tip: consider backordering
Let’s break each of these steps down.
Step 1. Research the domain name’s value
Purchasing a new domain name costs around £8.99 – £14.13 on average for one year of registration. However, if you want to learn how to get a domain that’s taken but not used, it will likely cost much more than £16.
Some individuals make a business of buying new domains and re-selling them at a higher price. If you don’t know how to calculate a domain’s value, you may end up over-paying.
Consider the factors that affect a domain names’ value, including:
- TLD (.com, .net)
- Name length (the shorter, the better)
- Spelling
- Keywords (for SEO)
You can use a domain name appraisal service like Sedo to determine your maximum budget before you negotiate. A good domain name appraisal can help define a fair price and explain what contributes to its value.
Ultimately, decide whether the specific domain is worth the investment based on your business goals.
Step 2: Check for trademark issues
Before diving into negotiations for a desired domain, it’s crucial to check for trademark issues. You might find the perfect domain name for your business or project, but if it’s already trademarked, you could face legal headaches down the line.
Start by searching the UK trademark database, to see if the dream domain name is registered as a trademark. Pay close attention to the classes under which the trademark is filed; sometimes, a name might be trademarked in one industry but available for use in another.
For those involved in domain name sales, being aware of trademark restrictions is essential. Not only does it protect you from potential lawsuits, but it also safeguards your investment.
A domain investor who overlooks this step could end up purchasing a domain that can’t be legally used, resulting in wasted time and money. If you discover the domain free from trademark conflict, proceed. If not, it’s best to pivot and consider an alternative.
Step 3. Find out who owns the domain
The first step in learning how to buy a domain name from someone is identifying the current owner. Start by checking if the desired domain is being used for an active website. Type your specific domain into the URL bar of your web browser.
You’ll see one of three things:
- An active website
- A “domain for sale” landing page
- An error message
If the website address is active, your chances of purchasing it are lower, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits. Try checking the footer or Contact Us page for a phone number, email address or other contact details.
If you see a “domain for sale” landing page, that’s good news. You’ll find contact information on the page or even a form you can use to make an offer. If you see an error message (or can’t find contact information on an active website), you can use Bluehost WHOIS lookup to find the registered owner.
Step 4. Get the domain owner’s contact information
A WHOIS record provides registration and contact information for every registered domain. The data is publicly available because the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) legally requires it.
You can find this information by typing your domain into the search bar at lookup.icann.org.
However, some web hosting providers offer a proxy registration service to protect their client’s privacy. If that’s the case, you’ll see contact information for a hosting company rather than the real owner.
Step 5: Assess the domain’s history
When considering a domain, it’s essential to assess the domain’s history. Tools like the Wayback Machine can help you check if the domain previously hosted a website. If it was associated with spam or harmful content, this could impact your brand negatively.
Look into a domain marketplace for any reviews or comments about the domain. Past user experiences can offer valuable insights. Additionally, examine the domain’s SEO performance. If it has quality backlinks, it could boost your project.
However, if it has been penalised by search engines, be prepared for potential challenges. By understanding the domain’s background, you can make a more informed decision and ensure your investment is worthwhile.
Step 6. Begin negotiations with the domain owner
Once you have the registrant’s information, it’s time to get in touch. If you landed on a “domain for sale” page, you might be able to enter a bid for the website directly on the landing page.
Otherwise, contact the owner via email, find out if they’re willing to sell and then ask for a price or make an offer. If the owner uses a domain broker or domain broker service, you may need to negotiate with a middleman.
A domain broker buys and sells domains for other people. Like real estate agents, domain brokers assist with connecting buyers with sellers and negotiating a fair price.
Step 7: Know exactly what you’re buying
Before finalising your purchase, it’s crucial to know exactly what you’re buying. Many domain owners may include extras like email addresses or hosting. Clarify what’s included and any usage restrictions.
Check if the specific name has changed hands often, this can affect both its value and reputation. Communicate directly with the domain owner to ask questions and get everything in writing. This ensures you’re making an informed decision that aligns with your goals.
Step 8. Use an escrow service to pay for the domain
Buying a domain name isn’t as simple as purchasing a product in a shop. You have to pay the current owner and they must transfer the website address to you.
But who goes first?
Should you send the payment upfront and trust that the owner will follow through with the domain transfer? Or does the owner transfer the domain and hope you pay the agreed amount.
There’s no guarantee that the owner will transfer the domain after they receive your payment. That’s why you should always use an escrow service to manage domain sales.
An escrow serviceis a third party that ensures everyone sticks to the agreed transaction. You pay the escrow service and they hold on to your money until the domain transfer is complete. Then, the escrow service gives your money to the original owner.
If a domain seller is unwilling to use escrow services, it could be a sign of a potential scam. In such cases, it’s best not to proceed with the purchase.
Step 9. Transfer ownership of the domain
Let’s say you contact the owner, make a bid and they accept. Congratulations, you’re one last step away from owning your specific name.
Once you’ve made your payment through an escrow service, the final step is to wait a few days for the current owner to transfer ownership of the website address to you. This domain transfer process typically takes a few days to complete, depending on the registrar and hosting setup.
Bonus tip: consider backordering
If the domain you want is taken, you might want to consider backordering. This allows you to place an order to acquire the domain as soon as it becomes available. Domains can expire and when they do, they often go back on the market.
You’ll be competing with others, including current domain owners, so setting up a backorder can give you a better chance of securing it. If the domain name owner doesn’t renew, you’ll be first in line to claim it.
Choose a reputable service for backorder to increase your chances of success. It’s a smart way to snag that perfect domain!
And once the domain is yours, consider adding Bluehost Domain Privacy + Protection to keep your personal details hidden from the public WHOIS database. This adds a layer of security and reduces unwanted spam.
How to transfer domain ownership?
To transfer ownership of a domain, the current owner must first disable the transfer lock and generate a transfer authorisation code (also called an EPP code). The new owner will use this code to request a domain transfer via their chosen registrar and typically pay for at least one more year of registration.
The domain transfer process is completed through the original owner’s domain registrar, the platform where the domain was initially registered. While procedures may vary slightly between registrars, most follow these key steps:
- Turn off domain lock settings
- Generate and share the transfer code
- Initiate the transfer from the recipient’s hosting dashboard
- Accept confirmation emails or prompts
- Wait a few days for full domain transfer completion
Once the domain is fully transferred, you’ll have ownership and full control over renewals, DNS settings and future changes.
You now understand how to buy a domain name from someone. Whether it’s a specific name, a premium address or a backordered opportunity, you’re ready to complete the final step in making it yours.
Final thoughts
Finding the perfect domain name can be tricky, especially if it’s already taken. But learning how to buy a domain name from someone unlocks several options to secure the right fit for your brand.
Start by reaching out to the current owner. Many may be open to negotiation, especially if the domain isn’t actively in use. If the cost feels too high or negotiations stall, consider different variations of your specific name. Adding a location or keyword may lead to a strong alternative.
Most domain registrars also offer suggestion tools to help spark ideas. Also, keep an eye on domains nearing expiration. If the owner fails to renew, a backordering service could help you claim it within a few days. These are smart ways to secure a domain, whether you’re launching an online store, personal project or business site.
Learn more about Bluehost web hosting services today and receive a free domain for one year with the purchase of a web hosting plan!
FAQs
Yes, you can, but it involves a bit of a process. If a domain name is already taken, it means someone else currently owns it. However, you can acquire it if the current owner is willing to sell. Some hosting companies offer domain brokerage services to facilitate these negotiations. It’s a bit like real estate, just because a house isn’t for sale doesn’t mean you can’t make an offer!
-First, try to find the current owner. Their contact details might be listed in the WHOIS database, unless they’ve enabled privacy protection.
– If you can’t reach them directly, you can use a domain broker or third-party negotiation service.
– You might also explore alternative options like using a different domain extension or adding a keyword to create a specific domain variation.
– Finally, check the domain’s expiration date. Some expired domain names become available again if not renewed, especially after a short grace period.
The price varies greatly. It depends on several factors:
The domain’s branding potential or popularity
Its SEO value and backlink history
Whether it uses a popular extension like .com or a UK domain like .uk
How much the current owner values it
Costs can range from few pounds to thousands or even tens of thousands for high-demand or premium domain names. Like other marketplaces, it’s all about supply and demand.
This is a common scenario. The current domain owner might be holding onto it for future use, as an investment or to protect their brand. You can still approach them to negotiate a purchase. Even when trying to buy a domain from someone UK-specific, unused domains are often available if you make a compelling offer.
Write A Comment