A while back, I purchased a .com domain from a fairly successful company called Soma. They had their website located on the same domain with .io extension. The bidding was very competitive and I ended up paying more than I initially anticipated. However, it is a short story and the domain consists of a single word with just seven characters.
After listing the domain on DAN.COM four months ago, unfortunately no sale occurred. Because of this, I have sent the domain to both SquadHelp and BrandBucket, which charge $4,995 and $10,695 respectively. Yet, I am still unsure about what to do with the domain.
The company is based in the UK and currently does not have any trademark declaration for this brand. Should I make a 30% discounted offer to them via outgoing email using my 4-step template: first email introducing the domain, second and third emphasizing the benefits of having a .com domain, and the fourth and final acting as a last call?
I plan to show the company the BB price offer and let them know that I would be willing to sell the domain to them before placing it on the market. If they decide not to make a purchase, then the domain will go up for sale on BB.
What are your thoughts on this strategy? Thank you.
Your idea of using a .com domain may work if the company is wealthy. However, there might be legal complications related to trademark disputes. To avoid such issues, it would be best to register the domain as a trademark before proceeding with your idea. This way, the idea can work out without any legal roadblocks.
From my perspective, protecting your intellectual property is crucial in any business venture, and it can prevent significant legal issues that may arise in the future. Therefore, registering the domain as a trademark can be an essential factor in achieving success.
Before reaching out to the company, I would recommend considering a few factors.
First, evaluate the potential market value of the domain. Consider the niche, industry, and target audience. Understand the company's branding and marketing strategy. Determine if there's a clear fit for the domain within their business model.
It's important to approach the company with professionalism and transparency. Instead of immediately offering the domain at a discounted price, you might consider starting with a brief, friendly email expressing your respect for their brand and explaining why you believe the domain could be a valuable asset for them. Avoid making assumptions about their willingness to purchase the domain, and be open to negotiation.
Additionally, research the potential legal implications of offering the domain to the company. While they may not have a trademark for the specific brand, they could still have legal rights to the name. Engaging in good faith negotiations is crucial to avoid any potential legal disputes.
When reaching out to the company, focus on the benefits of owning the .com domain, such as increased credibility, brand authority, and ease of use for customers. Highlight successful examples of companies that have rebranded with a .com domain to showcase the potential impact for their business.
Your approach should aim to establish a positive and collaborative dialogue with the company, offering the domain as a valuable opportunity for them. Should they not express interest, you can explore other avenues for selling the domain. Keeping professionalism and legal considerations at the forefront of your strategy will contribute to a smoother and more productive transaction process.