The domain name game isn’t just about buying low and selling high—it’s about timing, messaging, and spotting serious buyers before they vanish. Whether you’ve listed a domain for weeks with no bites or just received an inquiry that feels… suspicious, knowing how to identify real domain buyers is key to closing more deals and avoiding time-wasting tire kickers.
We’ve gathered insights from seasoned domain investors to help you spot the real buyers, filter out the flakes, and boost your chances of making profitable sales.
🔍 1. Serious Buyers Ask the Right Questions
Real buyers don’t ask “Is this available?” and disappear.
They typically ask:
- “Is the domain still available?”
- “What’s your bottom price?”
- “How is the domain currently being used?”
- “Can you transfer it to [specific registrar]?”
✅ Pro tip: The more specific and informed the questions, the more likely it’s a real buyer.
📧 2. Their Email Address Tells a Story
Many buyers reach out through marketplaces (like Dan, Sedo, or Afternic), but some will contact you directly.
Here’s what to look for in their email:
- Professional email domain (e.g. [email protected] > [email protected])
- A real name with a matching LinkedIn profile
- A signature block or company affiliation
⚠️ Red flag: Vague Gmail/Yahoo accounts with zero context like “How much?” or “Call me ASAP.”
🏢 3. They Have a Matching Website or Project
Do a quick background check:
- Google their email, name, or business name
- Visit any link they share—check if they already run a site in the same niche
- Use tools like WHOIS Lookup to see if they own similar domains
💡 Example: If they’re interested in GreenFleet.ai and they already run GreenFleetTech.com, they’re likely a legit buyer.
💬 4. They Make an Initial Offer — or Ask for Pricing Range
Real buyers understand that domains cost money. Even if they lowball you, they usually:
- Offer a starting price
- Ask what you’re expecting
- Seem open to negotiation
⚠️ Watch out for: “How much is this domain worth?” without follow-up.
✅ A strong buyer might say:
“We’re launching a product next quarter and think your domain fits. Can you let us know your asking price?”
🔐 5. They’re Comfortable Using Escrow or Marketplaces
One of the best ways to test a buyer’s legitimacy:
Suggest an escrow service.
Real buyers want safety and proof of transfer just as much as you do.
🛡 Trusted services:
- Escrow.com
- Dan.com
- GoDaddy’s broker or Afternic
🚩 Scammers often push for untraceable payment methods like:
- PayPal friends & family
- Direct wire transfer
- Crypto with no terms
🧠 6. They Know the Domain’s Value (or Want to Understand It)
Experienced buyers may reference:
- The keyword’s search volume
- Past sales of similar domains (check NameBio.com)
- The domain’s age, extension, or SEO value
Even newbies who are serious will ask thoughtful questions to educate themselves. If someone pushes for a rock-bottom price without context, they’re likely not serious.
🧭 7. They Move with Purpose
Real buyers typically:
- Respond within 24–48 hours
- Push toward next steps (negotiation, payment method, transfer timelines)
- Show urgency (especially for brand launches, rebrands, or ad campaigns)
💡 If someone says “I’ll get back to you in a few months,” don’t hold your breath. Stay polite but don’t count on the sale.
🚨 BONUS: Red Flags That Scream “Not a Buyer”
- They ask you to appraise the domain using a random service
- They say their “boss/investor/client” will pay later
- They pressure you to use unfamiliar payment services
- They ghost after asking for tons of details
Trust your gut — if it feels off, it probably is.
✅ Checklist: How to Spot a Real Domain Buyer
Indicator Legit Flake Uses a professional or matching business email ✅ ❌ Asks thoughtful, relevant questions ✅ ❌ Responds quickly and consistently ✅ ❌ Comfortable with escrow or marketplace ✅ ❌ Makes or negotiates a fair offer ✅ ❌ Pushes for vague payment or appraisal requests ❌ ✅
Final Thoughts
In domain investing, spotting real buyers is a skill that gets sharper with experience. Use these cues, ask the right questions, and protect your time—and your domains—from those who aren’t serious.
The right buyer is out there. You just have to know how to recognize them when they come knocking.
Want a free Buyer Vetting Checklist PDF or Google Sheet?
Just let me know—I’ll generate one for you to use in every deal.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio