"Premium Domain Names" #*$!

[too much information]

I know I haven't bought a new domain in about a year but what's up with the $1k "Premium Domains"? It used to be you could search a name or keyword and next thing you know there was a $7 ".org" or something, but now my usual registrars are pushing PREMIUMS?

Did I miss something? When did all this happen?

Is there a way to find decent cheap domain names somewhere or is it all a gamble now?

[Webwork]

Since many people - domainers, developers "with plans", people with an idea but no plan - have been speculatively registering domains for more than a decade I would say that you have to work harder than ever.

C'est la vie. Hindsight is easier than foresight for us mere mortals.

[maximillianos]

Those are re-sales you are seeing listed as "Premium". They are registered by 3rd parties and the registrar is offering them (for a cut) for sale.

You can still get $7 names, as long as they are not registered already. ;-)