One of my single word dot .com domains received an offer a few days ago. The person contacted me via the WHOIS info and asked me what is my asking price for this “unused domain”, which he said he’d use for a business he’s launching.
The domain is not only a short generic and 18 years old but it’s not parked. It hosts a web site containing information related to the keyword.
When I receive such inquiries that show intent to “force” a sale, I respond that the domain is developed or slated for development; subject to an offer that would be analogous to my past and current costs for registration, development and true market value.
The gentleman, who was logging on from Asia, became increasingly annoyed when I explained that his offer of $200 was in no way in touch with reality. His response was that of the “sour grapes” kind: if you kept it for 18 years, you’ll never going to sell it.
I’ve heard that argument several times before; it’s when one lacks the capabilities to make an offer because their budget is non-existent.
At that point I wished him happy new year, best of luck with his ventures and bid farewell.
The following day, my server firewall went crazy with reports of blocked attacks on the web site of that domain. Using dozens of rogue IPs, the attacker was attempting to log into the control panel – what for, I have no idea.
It seems that the rejection caused some …dejection and our failed bidder decided to annoy me a little. 😀
I suspect that this probably happens quite frequently. Some people simply have a hard time walking away from a deal, regardless if they are the buyer or seller. If that were me and the domain seller contacted me again, the price would be even higher!
domain buyer
Seems as though you’ve had a rough start to 2012 with that hard drive failure and cyberattack. Just getting your hardships over at the beginning of the year?
Jason – Can’t wait for their followup contact 😀
DomainFuze – That’s hardly serious to break a sweat! 😀
Coincidence? Heh.
For what it’s worth, I can sympathize. Thanks to the many budding young internet entrepreneurs who like to smoke crack before contacting domain owners, there’s never a dull moment in my inbox. 🙂