Should I purchase it right away or make a counter-offer? I inquired about the valuation of the domain, but the response only added to my confusion. "The name is acceptable, although there might be an existing user of this brand."

"If you manage to find a potential buyer, they would certainly be prepared to offer thousands and potentially more. I suggest keeping it on the market for several months."

Choosing between buying now or making an offer.
Which choice is the most optimal?

The majority of services provide the option for both, meaning you can either accept an offer or set a purchase price. This dual approach is beneficial as the buyback price serves as a useful reference point for estimating the potential value of your domain.

However, if you are uncertain about the worth of your domain name, it is advisable to utilize both options. This is because the ideal buyer may emerge at any time and be willing to pay a different price than what you initially expected. In such cases, having flexibility can lead to more successful negotiations and ultimately, a better outcome.

remember that the value of a domain name can fluctuate over time due to various factors, such as market trends and demand. Therefore, staying open to different possibilities and being adaptable in your approach can greatly enhance the chances of achieving a favorable transaction.

The fact that the name is "acceptable" suggests that it might not be the most unique or compelling domain out there. However, the mention of an existing user of the brand could be both a risk and an opportunity. If the brand is already in use, it might mean there's some inherent value in the name, but it also raises potential legal issues if you plan to use it in a similar market.

The advice to keep it on the market for several months indicates that the seller believes there's potential for the domain's value to increase. This could mean that the domain is somewhat speculative, and its worth might rise if the right buyer comes along. However, it also suggests that the seller might not be in a rush to sell, which could give you some leverage in negotiations.

If you believe the domain has strategic value for your business or investment portfolio, making a counter-offer could be a smart move. This way, you can potentially secure it at a lower price. On the other hand, if you're worried about losing the domain to another buyer, purchasing it right away might be the safer bet.

Consider also the market trends and your own financial situation. Are domains in this niche appreciating in value? Do you have the budget to make the purchase now without it affecting your other investments? These are important questions to ask yourself.
If the domain aligns well with your goals and you see potential for growth or strategic advantage, making a counter-offer could be a wise choice. But if there's a risk of losing it to someone else and you can comfortably afford it, buying it now might be the best course of action.

The seller's response seems ambiguous, leaving you with more questions than answers. As a domainer, I'd advise against making a hasty decision.

The seller's statement about an existing user of the brand raises concerns about potential trademark issues, which could impact the domain's value. The suggestion to keep the domain on the market for several months implies that the seller is either unsure about its value or is trying to create a sense of urgency.

In this scenario, making a counter-offer might be the most optimal choice. As a negotiator, you could respond by saying something like, "I appreciate your honesty about the potential trademark issue. However, I'm still interested in acquiring the domain. Would you be willing to consider a lower price, given the uncertainty surrounding its value?"