Most domain prices are negotiable. Whether you're buying or selling, understanding negotiation psychology and tactics can save or earn you thousands. Here are the strategies used by professional domain brokers.
For Buyers: Negotiation Strategies
1. Stay Anonymous
Never reveal your company name or urgency. Sellers research buyers—a known company gets quoted 3-10x higher. Use a generic email and vague project description.
2. Research Before Offering
Check comparable sales on NameBio. Know the domain's actual value before negotiating. Data gives you leverage: "Similar domains sold for $X."
3. Start Low (But Not Insultingly Low)
Open at 30-40% of asking price. This leaves room to negotiate while showing serious interest. A $100 offer on a $10,000 domain ends conversations.
4. Be Patient
Don't reveal urgency. Respond within 24-48 hours—fast enough to show interest, slow enough to avoid desperation signals. Negotiations often take weeks.
5. Be Willing to Walk Away
Your greatest leverage is the ability to say no. If a seller won't meet your budget, politely decline and leave the door open: "If things change, let me know."
For Sellers: Maximizing Value
1. Price Strategically
Set asking price 20-30% above your target. This gives negotiation room while anchoring high. A $10K ask might close at $7-8K—still a great outcome.
2. Know Your Domain's Value
Research comparable sales. Be ready to justify your price with data. Buyers respect sellers who know their domain's worth.
3. Identify the Buyer
Research the buyer's email domain, company, and use case. A Fortune 500 company can pay more than a solo entrepreneur. Adjust expectations accordingly.
4. Create Urgency (Authentically)
"I have another interested party" works if true. Manufactured urgency backfires. Real urgency: "I'm consolidating my portfolio this quarter."
Universal Negotiation Principles
- Always be professional: Rudeness kills deals
- Respond promptly: 24-48 hours is ideal
- Document everything: Keep records of all offers
- Focus on value, not just price: Payment terms, transfer speed matter
- Know your limits: Set max/min before negotiating
Sample Negotiation Scripts
Initial Buyer Inquiry
"Hi, I'm interested in [domain.com] for a project I'm working on. Is this domain available for purchase? If so, could you share your asking price? Thank you."
Counter-Offer Response
"Thank you for your response. Based on comparable sales for similar domains (NameBio shows [examples] sold for $X-Y), I was thinking more in the range of $Z. Is there flexibility on your end?"
Closing the Deal
"I appreciate working with you on this. I can agree to $X if we can close within the next 7 days using Escrow.com. Does that work for you?"
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Revealing your budget: Never say "my budget is $5,000"
- Showing desperation: "I need this domain for my launch"
- Insulting offers: $50 for a $5,000 domain ends conversations
- Over-negotiating: Know when to accept a fair deal
- Skipping research: Know values before you negotiate
FAQ
How much below asking price should I offer?
Start at 30-40% of asking price for negotiable listings. Some domains have firm prices—read the listing. If a seller seems motivated, you have more room.
What if the seller doesn't respond?
Wait 5-7 days and send one polite follow-up. If still no response, move on or try again in a few months. Persistence can work, but don't harass.