We have (a large collection of) geo-targeted domains that address specific vertical markets in many cities in the country.
[edited by: Webwork at 7:13 pm (utc) on April 3, 2009]
[edit reason] Fewer specifics, less doing business. Please see the Domain Forum Charter [/edit]
Regarding your collection one can only hope that it's paying for itself via parking, pending actual development of domains. Unless that's the case then my advice is to start trimming the portfolio down. Unless domains sales plus current revenue is covering costs you will keep eating into your other income and assets until you're broke. :(
I own many geo-domains but I have allowed many to lapse as I have learned more about the possibilities of the geo-domain space. Others have picked up domains that I have dropped, possibly because they are better versed in the subject or are ready to develop, etc.
I have targeted domains with the highest enduser values. PPC values still stink in many cases, but I've always thought in terms of converted leads for endusers. Still, paying for renewals can be painful.
It's a very interesting play but like everything else in the domain space those with experience tend to do better "with their next speculative registration". It pains me a bit when I see the nature and quality of geo-domains that are currenty being registered by some folks, likely those just getting into the game. In the domain space, just like in the PPC space, the affiliate space and the website dev space the "better game" is usually to build on what you already know instead of entering uncharted waters. Newbs just entering the space often pay a hefty price.
Lastly, I regret having to edit your first post but, if you take a careful look at the Domain Forum Charter [webmasterworld.com] and the WebmasterWorld TOS you will understand - and hopefully appreciate - the edit. WebmasterWorld is quite unlike other forums, with strong anti-promotion policies. No sigs. No sales. No hotlinks to personal sites. Etc. It's the very reason why so many consider WebmasterWorld an perennial educational resource.
[edited by: Webwork at 7:22 pm (utc) on April 3, 2009]
Regarding your development issues there are many forums here at WebmasterWorld where you would do well to post your questions.
Regarding what to do and how to do it the very brightest folks here will tell you that you must start "doing it" if you are ever going to learn what works for you. No kidding. True for me too.
If nothing else, park your domains and study your traffic stats, and consider dumping every domain that either doesn't pay for itself, doesn't generate enough type-in traffic to suggest developing it or only hold onto those that come close to paying for themselves. If it has cost you some money to learn a lesson or two consider those lessons now paid for. Cull the domains. Cut your losses. Build something.
Great advice. I own hundreds of domains and sometimes it can be hard to admit a mistake and stop renewing some of the really crappy domains that I bought years ago :)
