A domain name that would be perfect for my next project is already taken, but for sale for 4500$ (9 characters). Another one is available for 1500$ (15 characters :-( ).
Which raises the question, would you ever buy a domain name (for that kind of price)? Something in me doesn't want to do it, but then again it is hard to find good names that aren't taken. 4500$ is too much for me at this stage of the project, but in principle?
What makes you think that the price is $4,500? In almost all cases, these prices are very negotiable. Keep in mind that the owner probably paid less than $10 for it. Even considering overhead, $200 is a very good return on the sellers investment.
Here's how I would go about negotiating the price:
Subject: Interested in buying a domain name
Date: 2007-04-28
To: squatter1; squatter2; squatter3; ... ; squatter50
I am thinking about purchasing one of the following
domains. According to the WHOIS information, you are the
owner of one or more of them. If you are interested in
selling, please reply back with domain name and the price
you want for it. In order to give everybody enough time to
respond, I will wait a few days collect the responses I get
before I make a decision. I promise I will not disclose
your offer to anybody.
Thank you!
domain1.com - squatter1
domain2.com - squatter2
...
domain50.com - squatter50
Subject: RE: Interested in buying a domain name
Date: 2007-05-10
To: squatter
Thanks for your reply. I cannot afford the price you gave
me. If you still are interested in selling, please reply
back with a smaller price. Thanks again!
Subject: RE: Interested in buying a domain name
Date: 2007-05-25
From: me
To: squatter
Thanks for your numerous replies. I guess my expectations
are unrealistic because I didn't want to pay more than $100
for this project. I am not interested in the other
variations (.net, .org, etc.) you offered me. Please let me
know if you will accept $100 for just .com.
Subject: RE: Interested in buying a domain name
Date: 2007-05-30
From: me
To: squatter
Sorry, $ is too much for me. I will pay $200 if you throw
in the other variations too. I want to finish this up soon
so please reply back with the payment/escrow information.
Which raises the question, would you ever buy a domain name (for that kind of price)? Something in me doesn't want to do it, but then again it is hard to find good names that aren't taken. 4500$ is too much for me at this stage of the project, but in principle?