How do I buy a domain name from a marketplace?
Step-by-Step Buying Process
Most domain marketplaces follow a similar flow: you register for a free account, search for the domain you want, and if it's listed for sale, you'll see a price or an option to make an offer. After agreeing on terms, you pay the marketplace (not the seller directly), and the platform handles the transfer.
Once payment is confirmed, the marketplace typically acts as an escrow service. The seller is instructed to push the domain to your account at the same registrar or provide an authorization code for a transfer. You'll usually need to have or create an account at the receiving registrar.
- Sign up for a marketplace account (Sedo, Afternic, Dan, GoDaddy, etc.).
- Search for the domain and check if it's listed for sale.
- Choose 'Buy Now' or 'Make Offer' and complete payment.
- Wait for the marketplace to coordinate the transfer with the seller.
- Confirm the domain is in your registrar account and update your contact info.
Payment and Transfer Details
Payment methods vary by marketplace: credit card, PayPal, wire transfer, or escrow.com. The marketplace holds the funds until you confirm receipt of the domain. Transfer times can range from a few hours to several days, depending on the registrar and whether it's a push or a full transfer.
If the domain is registered at a different registrar, you'll need to initiate a transfer, which typically takes 5-7 days. Some marketplaces offer a 'transfer concierge' to help. Always ensure the domain is unlocked and you have the auth code before starting.
Common mistakes
- Paying the seller directly instead of using the marketplace's escrow service, which leaves you unprotected.
- Assuming the domain comes with hosting or a website—you're only buying the name.
- Forgetting to check if the domain is close to expiration, which could complicate the transfer.