Introduction
When it comes to starting a new website or blog, choosing the right domain name is crucial. In some cases, you may even want to consider buying an expired domain that already has some authority and backlinks. However, conducting an effective expired domain search can be a daunting task if you don’t know where to start. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, step by step.
Step 1: Finding a Good Expired Domain Provider
Before you can start your search, you need to find a reliable expired domain provider. There are many options out there, but not all of them are trustworthy. Some popular providers include NameJet, GoDaddy Auctions, and SnapNames.
Step 2: Identifying Your Criteria
Once you have a provider, you need to decide on your criteria for an expired domain. Some factors to consider include:
- Age of the domain
- Number of backlinks
- Anchor text of backlinks
- PageRank
- History of the domain
Step 3: Searching for Expired Domains
Using your criteria, you can start searching for expired domains on the provider’s website. Most providers have a search feature that allows you to filter results based on your criteria. Some providers also allow you to set up alerts for newly expired domains or domains that match your criteria.
Step 4: Conducting Due Diligence
Once you find a domain that meets your criteria, it’s essential to conduct due diligence to ensure there are no red flags. Some things to check include:
- Has the domain been penalized by Google?
- Does it have a spammy backlink profile?
- Has the domain been caught up in any legal disputes?
You can use tools like Google Search Console, Ahrefs, and Wayback Machine to investigate the history of the domain.
Step 5: Bidding on the Domain
If everything checks out, you can start bidding on the domain. Make sure you set a budget and stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in a bidding war and overspend.
Conclusion
Conducting an effective expired domain search requires some research and due diligence, but it can be a worthwhile investment if you find the right domain. By following these steps, you’ll have a better chance of success.
“Remember, choosing the right domain name is like choosing the name of your business – it’s important to get it right!”