5 replies
So I was wondering if this was a fact or just me being paranoid? I have known the domain I wanted for some time but didn't know if I wanted it to be plural, so I held off until I decided. Both were available then. Well, when I did decide, the one I wanted was available but the plural version was not. This was like a week later. It got me thinking...is it possible that when you search for a domain someone out there knows it? Then they purchase it quicker so you will have to buy it from them? I guess if that were true both would have been gone, but I still thought it was strange.
#domain #searches
  • Profile picture of the author Joseph Robinson
    Banned
    I've heard that theory being thrown around before (specifically saying that GoDaddy buys them and sells them off at higher prices); but I give it about as much thought as I do any other conspiracy theory (not much).
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    • Profile picture of the author Kay King
      It's not a theory - there is third party software that can pick up any domain searched and temporary register it.

      It's commonly known and easy to avoid.

      When you search for a domain you want - and it's available - buy it before you leave the registrar's site.

      In the OP's case - I'd wait 7-10 days without doing any searches for that domain and then try again. Good chance it will be available as the temp registration will be dropped.

      Why do they do this? Because they can sell the domain higher to the person who searched for it and if that person "bites" the domain is paid for (permanent registration) and they keep the profit.

      It's not illegal but it's good to know you can avoid it.

      kay
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    • Profile picture of the author agc
      It's not a conspiracy theory, it's a shady business practice, and yup, it turns out GoDaddy really is shady.
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      • Profile picture of the author Kay King
        It's not just GoDaddy - there are other registers that allow this software to operate.

        I agree - it's a bit shady...but it's a business model.

        If you know the domain you want - and it's available - buy it. It's that simple. This temporary registration business only works IF you can't make the decision to buy. The temporary registrar only earns money if you are so set on that domain you are willing to pay more to register it.

        Anyone marketing online needs to know how to avoid little deals like this. It's just part of the scenario where companies make money any way they can.

        Like I said - stop searching for that domain for 7-10 days and then check it again and chances are you'll be able to register it.

        kay
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        Saving one dog will not change the world - but the world changes forever for that one dog
        ***
        Please do not 'release balloons' for celebrations. The balloons and trailing ribbons entangle birds and kill wildlife and livestock that think the balloons are food.
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  • Profile picture of the author mikeevee
    Seems unlikely. It would be a risk if they did this, as most people will just buy an alternative one rather than try and buy the one they searched on that was gone.

    Why not put a reminder in your calendar to check next year and see if it is available then. I have done this with several domains and got them once they lapsed. Many people buy a domain with intentions to use it and then never get around to it and just end up letting it expire. You might well get lucky.
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