Using Old UK Domain to Develop New Web Project

[scoopydbc]

I am planning on setting up a new Web site. Having set other websites up from scratch (i.e. buy new domain> build and promote) I know it can take some time to build a bit of trust with Google.

I have decided to give buying an old domain name for the launch a go.

I realise that it can be a little risky, but two immediate questions spring to mind:-

Where is a good place to start looking for old UK domains?

In terms of strategy is it best to develop on the domain or simply redirect from the old domain to the new one?

Thanks

D

[edited by: Webwork at 5:58 pm (utc) on Oct. 17, 2007]
[edit reason] Tidying up [/edit]

[Quadrille]

>> 1. I am planning on setting up a new Web site.
>> 2. or simply redirect from the old domain to the new one?

Here's The Thing ... It does not compute.

Are you setting up a new site - or moving an old one to a new domain?

If the former, why do you think an old overpriced domain will be better than a new one, and if the latter, er, why?

[scoopydbc]

option 1 : Buy old site with lots of links 301 to new domain
option 2 : buy old site and redevelop that site

As for overpriced that is subjective, I suppose. How much money is 6/7 months waiting to get some 'google momentum' worth to your business?

[draggar]

How much money is 6/7 months waiting to get some 'google momentum' worth to your business?

A lot since the new site may be irrelevant to what people are looking for.

If you're buying the site and keeping it the same theme / product line that they had before then it will help you but if it's completely different you're back at square one.

The only advantage is how much type in traffic will the old domain get?

If you redirect then people may think that it's not the same people as before (and rightfully so) but if you build from the old domain then they may think it is just a site revamp.

As for buying old domains, look into resellers, auction sites, drop-services, etc..

[scoopydbc]

draggar,

Agreed - the ideal would be to find a domain with a relevant keyword, in a relevant niche or industry and possibly with relevant traffic and links.

I think the price you pay for a domain is dependent on all of these factors. Again, there is an element of subjectivity to this debate - it all depends, but ultimately its a business decision

Thanks for the suggestions though