4 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Domain Names

 


By: Kayla McDonald


If you want to build a website, buying a domain is of the first steps. However this process can be overwhelming due to the massive online marketplace. Nowadays you can buy domain names from a variety of sources like website providers, domain registrars or web hosting companies. While either service will get the job done…many people overpay or leave their personal information vulnerable to scammers. To avoid overpaying or compromising personal information, it is important to research and compare prices from different sources before making a purchase. 

Be sure to choose a reputable and trusted provider that offers secure payment options and privacy protection services to ensure a safe and hassle-free domain-buying experience. Reputable domain registers will have good customer reviews and a track record of providing reliable services. It is also advisable to check for any additional fees or hidden costs that may be associated with the domain registration process. By taking these precautions, individuals can ensure that they are getting the best value for their money while keeping their personal information secure. That's why we're created a list of 4 common mistakes to avoid when purchasing domain names.

 
  1.  Buying everything from a website builder  - This is like "putting all your eggs in one basket." Although getting a FREE domain from the same company you’re building a website is convenient… it may cost more in the long run. Website builder softwares typically allow customers to get started at no cost, however upgrades are required for special features like custom domain names which range from $10-$50mo! 


  1. Not checking Renewal price - While promotional offers can be attractive please read the fine print! Some domain registrars & website providers offer a FREE domain for the 1st year then charge you twice the price for renewing. Take a moment to compare rates and buy domains that renew at fair prices.


  1. Choosing monthly subscriptions - Website providers are known to offer monthly subscriptions as a payment option. The downside of using this method is the possibility of missed payments. If you forget to pay their monthly fee or become unable to make payments, website providers can disable your account and unpublish your website. We recommend registering domain names on a yearly basis.

  1. Purchasing Domains without privacy - Not understanding privacy protections (WHOIS guard) could result in having your personal contact details on display and potentially paying extra to hide it!  The good news is that most website builder software include ‘Free domain privacy’ which means your personal details will be protected in the WHOIS directory. This will also prevent SPAM with a private email address for domain inquiries. So make sure your domain purchase includes privacy. 



In conclusion, whether you’re building a sales page, blog or website you’ll need a domain name. Having a unique and memorable domain name is crucial for establishing your online presence and brand identity. It not only helps in attracting visitors but also adds credibility to your website. Therefore, investing time and effort in choosing the right domain name is essential for the success of your online venture. Ultimately, the goal in building a website is to have more control over your online reputation. That’s why we recommend buying a custom domain name. If your not familiar with those terms, checkout our past blog post explaining “custom domains” in more detail. Moving forward, hopefully this blog post cleared up any confusion and helped you choose the the best option when buying a domain!



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

How 'The Secret' Movie Transformed My Life: Unlocking the Power of Positive Thinking

What A "Domain Name" Means For Your Business

3 Bootstrapping Ideas to Revive a Business That Is Not Making Enough Money