Many domains are listed with a "make an offer" option or a minimum offer instead of a fixed price. That opens the door to negotiation, and a well-run negotiation can save buyers a lot of money while giving sellers a fair result. Here is a practical approach that works for both sides.
Key takeaways
- Research comparable sales before your first offer.
- Decide your opening offer, target and walk-away price in advance.
- A reasonable first offer gets a reply; an insulting one ends the conversation.
- Keep the negotiation on the marketplace so the deal is protected.
Before you make an offer
- Research value. Look at comparable sales and the factors in our valuation guide, and try the valuation tool.
- Check the minimum offer. Offers below the seller's minimum are rejected automatically.
- Set three numbers: your opening offer, the price you hope to pay and your walk-away price.
The opening offer
Your first offer anchors the conversation. Too low, and the seller may not bother to reply. Too high, and you have left money on the table. A good opening offer is clearly below your target but defensible: you could explain it with comparable sales.
Add a short message. It makes your offer feel serious:
Hello, I would like to use this name for a small business project. Based on similar sales I am offering 1,500. I can pay right away through the marketplace checkout.
Handling counter-offers
- Move in smaller steps each time. Large jumps signal that you have plenty of room left.
- Explain your numbers briefly. "Comparable two-word names sold between 1,000 and 2,500" is more persuasive than "too expensive".
- Trade, do not just concede. A quick payment, paying the transfer fee or a faster close can be worth something to the seller.
- Use deadlines carefully. Offers expire; a reasonable expiry date keeps things moving without pressure.
For sellers: responding to offers
Reply quickly and with a number. A plain "no" ends the conversation; a counter-offer keeps it alive. If the offer is far below your minimum, say so politely and state the price range you would consider. Read our seller's guide for more.
Mistakes to avoid
| Mistake | Why it hurts |
|---|---|
| Revealing a big budget or urgent launch | The seller raises the price. |
| Insulting low-ball offers | The seller stops replying. |
| Negotiating outside the platform | You lose payment protection and a record of the deal. |
| Ignoring the total cost | Fees and renewals change the real price. |
| Falling in love with one name | You overpay. Keep alternatives in mind. |
When to walk away, or get help
If the price passes your walk-away number, thank the seller and leave the door open. Sellers sometimes come back weeks later. For high-value names, or when you want to stay anonymous, a domain broker can negotiate on your behalf.
Closing the deal
Once an offer is accepted on AIODomain, you pay through the checkout, the seller transfers the domain and you confirm receipt. The seller is paid only after that confirmation. See how domain transfers work.
Frequently asked questions
Is an accepted offer binding?
Yes. Once the seller accepts, the buyer is expected to pay within the payment deadline. Only make offers you are ready to honour.
Can I make offers on several domains at once?
You can, but be ready to pay for every offer that is accepted.
