Maximizing the value of free domain appraisals or evaluations

How to make a domain appraisal post (in a forum that allows them - not here)

[Webwork]

(Note to newcomers: Please read this forum's Charter before posting. We don't do domain appraisals here, nor do we allow mention specific domains.)

Now, on to the business of this post . . . . . . .

I occasionally post domain names in the appraisal sections of domain forums, seeking input about aftermarket value. More often I offer advice about domain values.

This thread focuses on one thing: How to effectively write a request for a domain appraisal.

Future posts will look at how to interpret the feedback you receive, plus many other issues, so PLEASE keep this thread to "How to effectively write a request for an appraisal."

How to effectively write a request for a free domain appraisal.

1. In the subject line or title of your post state the actual domain: "Please appraise Example.com"

If you don't state the domain then I won't bother opening the thread. Why? Because most of the time threads that don't specify the domain are about domains that are junk, not worth the time of a read, much less giving an opinion.

Your domain might be an exception, but by not omitting the domain name from the title of the post you've lost me - and many other experienced domainers.

2. In the body of the post present and do the following:

Provide traffic stats and their source, if available. (Since this isn't a sale you need go no further, such as providing a link to a stats page.)

If the domain is associated with an active site, say so. It becomes a fact to consider. Provide info about the site's visitors. This goes as much to damage to the domain as to enhancement.

Provide word frequency stats from Overture and Google and, if it exists, domain+extension frequency from Overture's Keyword Selector Tool. Domain+extension has some value. Mere word frequency has little value. Still, add it but don't get excited.

Keep your views about how great a domain it is or could be - such as it's potential uses - to yourself lest the potential appraiser think "Why bother? He already thinks he knows better."

Confirm that you are the owner OR if you are acting in another role. Domainer's get irked by hidden isses.

If you are looking for an appraisal in preparation for buying a domain you just goofed. Don't be surprised if there's new bidder.

If you do all of the above and still no one replies take that as an act of kindness. Instead of saying "it's junk" the members have resolved to be nice and say nothing.

If you insist on a reply and proceed to "bump" your own post you may find the replies somewhat blunt. Be respectful or don't expect even that level of input in response to future posts.

Additional suggestions, ideas or experiences specific to the topic of how to craft a request for a domain appraisal are most welcome.

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This thread is intended as the first in a series of "educational threads" - each about a specific topic - that will be archived here. Questions or comments about other issues related to domain values or appraisals should be presented in a separate thread. This thread is about a single topic: How to effectively post a request for an appraisal.

[Edwin]

The quickest way to kill an appraisal thread is by arguing with the valuations you're being given. Face it, you were the one who asked for OPINIONS, so sit back and accept them. You don't have to agree with them, but you have to accept them.

If you frequently argue against low appraisals, you'll quickly develop a reputation as a time-waster and good luck getting anyone knowlegeable to appraise your names after that!

One other thing: it's possible (and indeed quite common) to have a domain appraised for $10,000 yet have no takers when you put it on sale for $1,000. Generally, good appraisals are "end user" values i.e. they assume a buyer with an explicit need/reason for that particular domain. The chances of finding such a buyer on a domain forum crawling with folks looking for low hanging fruit domain bargains is virtually zero.