How do I find a domain that is available at auction?

There are several ways to acquire a domain that is already registered by someone else. One method is placing a back-order at a site like SnapNames.com; if the registrant does not renew the domain, you will be in the auction. Other methods include actively searching for the domain on a marketplace and setting up search alerts so that you can be notified by email if a name matching your search criteria becomes available.

Back-order - To place a back-order, search for the domain name you desire. If it is not available you will be prompted to enter your bid (the price you are willing to pay to register this domain) directly from the search results page. If the domain becomes available, you will be notified via email and become a bidder in the auction. (For example, All Register.com expiring domains are auctioned at SnapNames.com so you can visit SnapNames.com to enter a bid on your 'dream domain'.)

Search - You can also search for domains available in auction by visiting a domain auction site. A search can be done on a number of criteria including extension, keyword, price or whether items (domains) have a current bid. In addition to viewing all inventory, you can also filter by specific types of inventory such as domains that are In Auction, Available Soon, or featured in special auction events. Auction sites like SnapNames.com also enable you to setup email alerts from the search results page.

What tools are available to help me?

Keep in mind, the auction system opens and closes all at one time, so be sure to keep a close eye on your position in the auction. On SnapNames.com, you can log into your account and go to My Auctions to view your position in the auction. There are also a few key features to highlight which are available to assist you:

Auto-bid setting - Set up a "Proxy Bid" from My Auctions to automatically out-bid other buyers in increments up to a level you determine ahead of time. Many bidders overlook this valuable bidding option, which virtually eliminates the possibility of being sniped (outbid by a small increment) at the end of the auction.

Out-Bid alerts - In the event you are out-bid, an email notification will be sent to you. This email will also include a link to increase your bid, if desired. It is strongly advised that you log into your account a minimum of five minutes prior to the auction end time rather than relying on your email service provider to instantly deliver all emails.

Watch lists - Select any of the domains to receive e-mail alerts when bidding activity occurs. This allows you to watch bidding activity without actively bidding.

How do I know if I've won the domain at auction?

Once you win a domain at auction, an email notification will be sent to you. The majority of transactions are completed within one business day, including the transfer of your new domain to your registrar account. Your credit card on file will automatically be charged prior to the transfer of the domain.

Happy Bidding!