Domain Outreach Guide
How to find buyers, write emails that get responses, and close deals directly.
Why outreach works
Marketplace listings are passive - you wait for buyers to find you. Outreach is active - you go find the buyers. For the right domain, direct outreach consistently produces higher sale prices than marketplace listings alone.
Target the right companies. A domain is worth the most to the company that needs it most. Your job is to find that company and make a compelling case.
Finding potential buyers
Google search
Search for companies using similar domain names or operating in the same space. Companies using a .net or .org version of your .com are prime targets.
Find companies in the relevant industry. Look for businesses that are growing and might be rebranding or expanding.
Crunchbase
Recently funded startups often need better domain names. Filter by industry and funding stage.
Trademark databases
Companies with trademarks matching your domain are motivated buyers. Check USPTO TESS.
Writing effective outreach emails
Keep it short. Decision-makers get dozens of emails a day. Get to the point in the first two sentences.
Email template
Subject: [Domain.com] - available for purchase
Hi [Name],
I own [Domain.com] and noticed [Company] operates in this space. The domain is available if you're interested in securing it.
Asking price is $[X]. Happy to discuss if you have questions.
[Your name]
What works: Short, direct, no pressure. State what you have and what you want.
What doesn't: Long pitches about domain value, multiple follow-ups in the same week, aggressive pricing language.
Handling responses and negotiating
- If they counter low: Don't panic. Counter back at a price between your ask and their offer. Most deals close in 2–3 rounds.
- If they ask for justification: Share comparable sales from NameBio. Data beats opinion.
- If they go silent: One follow-up after 5–7 days is fine. After that, move on.
- When you agree: Use Escrow.com. Never transfer before payment clears.
Ready to put this into practice?
Use our free tools to research, value, and find domains.