ICANN will launch the Registration Data Access Protocol (RDAP) on January 28, 2025, replacing WHOIS for gTLD registration information. RDAP provides advantages like internationalization support, secure access, and differentiated data access. Users can access ICANN's RDAP Lookup service or use the Registration Data Request Service for nonpublic data requests.
ICANN Update: Launching RDAP; Sunsetting WHOIS Read More »
As a domainer, you register valuable domain names to develop them in the future or sell them for a profit. But while those domains sit undeveloped, you can monetize them through domain parking and generate revenue from the existing traffic they receive.
Domain parking refers to placing a temporary, revenue-generating page on an undeveloped domain. When visitors land on the parked page, they are shown pay-per-click (PPC) ads relevant to the domain name. Each time a visitor clicks an ad, the domain owner earns money.
For example, if you owned BestCarDeals.com, the parked page might display PPC ads for car dealerships, auto loans, car insurance, etc. The domain itself isn't being used for an actual website, but it's still providing value by connecting searchers with relevant advertisers.
There are two main types of domain parking:
Some parking services also allow domain owners to list their domains for sale on the parked pages. This makes the pages dual-purpose – generating ad revenue while attracting potential buyers.
To maximize revenue from your parked domains, follow these tips and best practices:
In addition to PPC advertising, parked domains can be monetized in a few other ways:
The key is choosing a monetization model that aligns with the domain name and the audience it reaches. With the right strategy, domain parking can provide domains with a steady stream of passive income. Just remember to follow best practices, monitor your results, and continually optimize your parked pages for maximum ROI.
One of the biggest drivers of parking revenue is the domain's ability to attract type-in traffic—visitors who land on the parked page by directly entering the URL. Domains that contain high-value, commercially intent keywords tend to draw the most type-in traffic.
Think of product names, business types, and popular search phrases like Car Insurance or Best Tech Reviews. Domains featuring keywords with high cost-per-click (CPC) in Google Ads are especially lucrative for parking, as advertisers will pay more to display their ads on those pages.
Avoid trademarked terms, though, as that can lead to legal issues. Tools like Google Keyword Planner can help gauge a keyword's value. Also, consider common misspellings and variations of top keywords.
Not all TLDs are created equal when it comes to type-in traffic potential. Stick with .com domains whenever possible, as they receive the lion's share of direct navigation visits compared to alternatives like .net or .org.
Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs) like .co.uk and .com.au can also be attractive for parking if you target ads to a specific geographic market. The new .xyz and .io TLDs popular with tech startups are also gaining traction. But in general, .com is still king.
While keyword domains are ideal for parking, brandable domains can also have potential if they are short, memorable, and lend themselves to valuable brand development. Think Carrot.com or Pineapple.io.
The right brandable name in a trending niche like crypto, VR, or cannabis could attract startup buyers flush with venture capital. Park the domain initially to gauge interest and consider selling it simultaneously to field offers.
For domains that have previously hosted live websites, the existing traffic and backlink profile is a crucial indicator of parking potential, which can be checked using tools like Google Analytics and Moz.
Steady organic traffic, even negligible, shows the domain has inherent value to build on. Quality backlinks from authoritative sites also boost the domain's stature in Google's eyes. Both of these factors can translate into more eyeballs on your parked ads.
Contrastingly, avoid domains with spammy or adult-themed backlink profiles, which can repel advertisers and hurt parking earnings. Expired domains can be a goldmine, but assess their history.
Staying on the pulse of trending business niches and fast-rising keywords can help you spot domains ripe for parking. Lean into the zeitgeist and consider domains related to hot sectors like:
Domains that align with emerging trends tend to see a spike in type-in traffic and advertiser demand. They also often attract startups and entrepreneurs eager to secure a memorable domain in their space.
Once you've acquired a domain to park, don't just let it sit passively. Actively test and optimize your parked pages to maximize revenue. Most parking services allow you to provide your keywords to match better the ads displayed.
Experiment with different ad layouts, and consider creating a custom parked page designed to funnel visitors toward the most relevant and high-paying ads. Track your results and prune out underperforming domains to reinvest in new opportunities.
Other notable but somewhat less frequently mentioned options include Park.io, Above.com, Skenzo, and DomainSponsor. The best choice depends on factors like payout rates, minimum traffic requirements, user interface, and customer support. Many domainers test their portfolios across multiple parking platforms to optimize revenue.
What is Domain Parking? Read More »
Selling a domain name can be a great way to make some extra money, but it does require some strategy. Here are tips on setting a price, finding a buyer, and negotiating when selling a domain name.
The first step is determining a reasonable asking price for your domain. Check sites like NameBio and Estibot to see the sale history and estimated value of similar domain names. This will give you a ballpark figure when pricing your domain.
It's best to set a fixed “Buy Now” price rather than hold an auction if you sell a standard, non-premium domain name. Auctions work better for premium names that may attract multiple interested buyers.
When setting your price, make sure to leave some room for negotiation. Price it around 20% higher than the minimum amount you'd be willing to accept so you have space to come down during negotiations.
To find potential buyers for your domain name, list it for sale on popular domain marketplaces like Sedo, Afternic, and GoDaddy Auctions. These sites attract buyers who are actively looking to purchase domain names.
You can also try contacting companies whose name, product, or industry your domain relates to. For example, if you owned a pet store supplies-themed domain name, you could contact some pet stores to see if they'd want to buy it.
Building out a simple “for sale” page on the domain itself, including your contact form and asking price, is another option to allow interested buyers to contact you directly.
When you receive an offer on your domain that is lower than your asking price, negotiate politely to aim for a higher sale amount. Provide evidence for why your domain is valued at your asking price, such as similar completed sales.
You can start higher than your minimum acceptable price so that you have room to come down in negotiations. But also know your walkaway point so you don't go too low.
Using an escrow service like Escrow.com ensures you get paid before transferring ownership of the domain. This protection is essential when negotiating with an unknown buyer.
Selling a domain name successfully takes research and strategy. But take the proper steps for pricing, finding buyers, and negotiating, and you can likely turn your unused domain into cash.
How to Sell a Domain Name Read More »
Domainers purchase domain names they believe have potential value, often focusing on short, brandable .com domains or domains related to high search volume keywords. They research domains to assess their potential worth and monitor sales trends to identify promising opportunities.
Once a domainer acquires a domain, they may park it by pointing it to a monetized placeholder site featuring ads or develop it into a niche website to generate ad revenue. Another option is to list the domain for sale on aftermarket platforms to find buyers willing to pay a premium.
Patience and experience are essential in domaining. Domainers often hold domains for extended periods, waiting for the right buyer or market conditions. Successful domainers have in-depth knowledge of the domain landscape and sales histories to value domains accurately.
It can take a significant upfront investment and inventory to see meaningful returns. But for patient, dedicated individuals who learn how to identify valuable domains and connect with motivated buyers, domaining can become a viable business model and income stream over time.
How a Domainer Works? Read More »
Domaining, known as domain name speculation, is buying and selling domain names for profit. Much like real estate, domain names are virtual assets that can increase in value over time.
Recent statistics show over 370 million registered domain names globally. The domain name industry is estimated to be worth $3 billion. With the continued growth of e-commerce and internet usage, experts predict the value of premium domains will only increase.
So, how does domaining work, and what makes a domain valuable? Here are some key things to know:
– Short, brandable domains tend to be the most valuable. One or two-word dot com domains (.com) are ideal.
– Domains relating to high search volume keywords have monetization potential.
– Older domains with good registration histories fetch higher prices.
– Domains matching trademarked terms or brands can demand top dollar. But this also risks cybersquatting accusations.
As with any investment, domaining requires research, capital, and patience. But for those willing to learn the ropes, it can be a way to build assets and passive income over time.
Some recent sales include Voice.com, which sold for $30 million in 2019, and CarInsurance.com, which sold for $49.7 million in 2022. While these sales make headlines, smaller domains can still generate healthy profits.
So, in short, domain names are the internet's real estate. Domaining lets investors buy and sell these virtual assets for profit. It's an industry that's only expected to grow.
What is Domaining? Read More »
