Had someone contact me to buy a name I've had since the 90's. Decent name, used to have a business on it, which did well. It's short, catchy, etc. They offered a fairly large sum for it, and before I begin negotiating, I need to know what's the safest way to be paid for it, when the sum is in the 5 figure range?

Bit much for escrow (or is it?), won't take Paypal ( ;) ), certified bank draft may be ok, and a personal check is right out. What would work, I'm wondering? Not sure I'm not just being fooled with at this point, but I'd like to know how to protect my interests the best if not.

Suggestions?

Escrow sounds perfect for this... Escrow.com handles transactions upwards of $1mil if I recall correctly. Just make sure they pay fees :) and good luck with your sale

Bit much for escrow (or is it?) I'd use escrow. ;)

i am using sedo for this, they are paying through paypal, cheque and wire transfer.

ask your bank what they recommend as the safest way to receive funds, then do it that way.

if the buyer is willing to pay you directly, why pay for escrow?

ask your bank what they recommend as the safest way to receive funds, then do it that way.

if the buyer is willing to pay you directly, why pay for escrow?


Escrow will protect both parties from default. They might try to take the domain and run and you might try to take their money and run. It's best for all parties involved!

I'll elaborate a bit on the process for a domain name (this is how I've seen it done), you would create a new account at the same registrar as the current domain name and 'push' the domain to the new account. I'm assuming you have more than the single domain name in your current account, that is the reason for the new account. After the push is complete, print off the account information including user name, password, and any other login details. Place the information in a Fedex priority envelope (so that you get signature confirmation and a tracking number). Once the buyer pays Escrow.com (or who ever is doing your escrow) and you get the go ahead from your escrow agent to ship the merchandise, ship the Fedex envelope to the buyer and give the tracking number to your escrow agent. Once the buyer receives the letter you have signed confirmation of receipt to give to your agent if needed.

Now that's a good plan, thanks!

Another vote for Escrow.com, have used them twice for domains and was pleased with the service.