If you follow me on X (@Sullys_Blog), you know I am a sucker for the thrill of a hand-reg. Hand-registered domain names offer a unique opportunity for investors to acquire potentially valuable digital assets at a low initial cost. Unlike aftermarket domains, which often come with a significant price tag due to their established value, hand-registered domains can be purchased for as little as the standard registration fee. Here I’ll guide you through the process of identifying, evaluating, and registering hand-registered domains that have the potential for high resale value.
The Potential of Hand-Registered Domains
Hand-registering domains can be an incredibly rewarding venture if approached strategically. While many of the most obvious and straightforward domains have already been taken, new trends and niches constantly emerge, creating opportunities for savvy investors. This makes it exciting. Hand-registered domains can serve various purposes, from brandable names for startups to keyword-rich domains for search engine optimization (SEO).
Characteristics of Profitable Hand-Registered Names
There are certain aspects to look for in hand-regs that have any value. You can also use these as inspiration in your brainstorming of potential names to check for availability.
1. Emerging Trends and Niche Markets
To identify profitable hand-registered domains, it’s crucial to stay ahead of trends and spot emerging markets. This requires a keen eye for industry developments, cultural shifts, and technological advancements. Here are some ways to keep abreast of these changes:
- Industry News and Publications: Regularly read industry-specific news sites, blogs, and magazines.
- Social Media and Forums: Follow influential figures and participate in discussions on platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and niche forums.
- Google Trends: Use Google Trends to identify rising search queries and topics gaining popularity.
2. Short, Pronounceable, and Brandable Names
Domains that are short, easy to pronounce, and memorable are more likely to be brandable and desirable. Consider these factors:
- Length: Aim for domains that are between 5-15 characters. Shorter domains are easier to remember and type.
- Pronunciation: Ensure the domain is easy to say aloud. This helps with word-of-mouth marketing and brand recall.
- Uniqueness: A unique name stands out in the market and is less likely to have trademark conflicts.
3. Keyword Relevance
Domains containing relevant keywords can attract buyers looking to enhance their SEO efforts. Keywords should be:
- Descriptive: Clearly describe the business, product, or service.
- High Search Volume: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find keywords with substantial search volume.
- Low Competition: Target keywords that have less competition but still significant search volume.
Tools and Techniques for Discovering Available Domains
Ultimately, your mind is going to be the best tool for discovering available domain names. Maybe you’re looking out the window and you see something that sparks an idea. Perhaps you overhear something at a coffee shop that triggers a name in your head. Maybe you are brainstorming about your current hobbies or day job and listing potential keywords and phrases. These are the most personally rewarding. But here are some other options as well.
1. Domain Name Generators
Domain name generators can help spark ideas by combining keywords and suggesting available options. Some popular generators include:
- LeanDomainSearch: Combines your keyword with popular terms and checks availability.
- NameMesh: Offers suggestions based on categories like common, new, and SEO.
- Bust a Name: Allows you to filter and combine keywords to generate domain ideas.
2. Keyword Research Tools
Keyword research tools can help identify trending and relevant keywords to include in your domain names. Key tools include:
- Google Keyword Planner: Provides search volume and competition data for keywords.
- Ahrefs: Offers in-depth keyword analysis and competitor insights.
- Ubersuggest: Generates keyword ideas and provides search volume data.
3. Domain Marketplaces
Browsing domain marketplaces can give you an idea of what’s currently trending and in demand. Popular marketplaces include:
- Sedo
- Afternic
- Namecheap Marketplace
Case Studies
I suppose I can’t really call these case studies, as I am not certain they were hand-registered prior to the sale listed. But here are some potential samples of names that could be representative. I’ve previously mentioned that I have had good luck with geo-business names as hand regs. I did a quick search on NameBio for domains starting with “Chicago” that sold in the past 5 years. Have a look:
Geo-Names
Selecting smaller towns combined with industries such as “chiropractic” or “attorney” often results in decent resale.
Hand-registering domain names can be a highly profitable venture if done with careful consideration and strategic planning. By focusing on emerging trends, ensuring the names are short, pronounceable, and brandable, and leveraging keyword research, you can identify and acquire domains with high resale potential. Utilizing tools and staying informed about market developments will further enhance your ability to discover valuable hand-registered domains. If you have questions, shoot me an email, post a comment, or reach me @sullys_blog.
