Methods for evaluating a domain name

[NetWin]

Hi guys, I was wondering - how do you go about appraising a domain before you purchase it? That's it - please discuss!!

 

[bmugford]

Here are a few I consider.

1.) Google Results. The results have to be relevant.
2.) Word Tracker. It shows that there are people searching for a term.
3.) PPC Ads. It shows that there is a way to monetize the domain.
4.) Extensions taken. See what other exact matches, and similar domains are taken.

In general I like to stay away from "Brandable" names. Those names are too hard to value.

I also like markets with liquidity. LLL.com, LLLL.com, CCC.com

With those markets

1.) Letter Quality.
2.) Letter Pattern. CVCV, VCVC, AABB, ABBA, ABAA, NLL, LNN, etc.
3.) Pronounceable. Is the domain EASILY Pronounceable?
4.) Acronyms.

 

[Len]

Here are a few I consider.

1.) Google Results. The results have to be relevant.
2.) Word Tracker. It shows that there are people searching for a term.
3.) PPC Ads. It shows that there is a way to monetize the domain.
4.) Extensions taken. See what other exact matches, and similar domains are taken.

In general I like to stay away from "Brandable" names. Those names are too hard to value.

I also like markets with liquidity. LLL.com, LLLL.com, CCC.com

With those markets

1.) Letter Quality.
2.) Letter Pattern. CVCV, VCVC, AABB, ABBA, ABAA, NLL, LNN, etc.
3.) Pronounceable. Is the domain EASILY Pronounceable?
4.) Acronyms.

Excellent advice, I would just like to add that 1,2&3 can be found using www.estibot.com
This is a very useful data tool and also gives you an estimate value. This is a metrics generated estimate and may not reflect the true value of the domain.