What's In A Domain Name?
Ever wondered why some domains sell for millions while others can't fetch a dime? Here's the thing, it's not just about having a catchy name. There's an art to understanding the true value of domain names, and as we've stepped into 2026, this art has evolved in ways most people didn't see coming.
Let me take you behind the scenes of the high-stakes game of domain investing. Today, I'll share what really drives a domain's value through some eyebrow-raising examples — buckle up!
The Secret Sauce of Domain Evaluation
Domain valuation often feels like wizardry to the uninitiated. But those in-the-know realize it’s all about TLDs (Top-Level Domains), brandability, and market trends. Take Tabula.com, for instance. 'Tabula' means 'table' or 'board' in Latin. Simple, yet powerful. This type of name is like catnip to businesses wanting that blend of classical gravitas and modern simplicity.
The Role of gTLDs
- Gone are the days when .com was king—gTLDs (Generic Top-Level Domains) are now part of the royal family too.
- Diverse TLDs cater to niche audiences (.ai for tech, .io for startups) increasing their appeal.
'A great domain isn’t just seen; it’s remembered' - Unknown
Finding Diamonds: The Aftermarket & Expired Gems
Navigating through expired domains and drop catching can feel like searching for treasure in murky waters. But when you strike gold, oh boy! It’s why savvy investors keep an eye on services offering [backorder](/ "backorder services") options or auctions like NameJet.com where DesignPro.com recently made waves.
Dialing into this world demands one to understand tools such as WHOIS databases or having relationships with registrars that can give you an edge in securing premium names before they hit the open market again.
A Case Study: FLVR.com Sells Big!
- This four-letter gem sold because it ticked many boxes — short, memorable, and a play on 'flavor.'
- Selling at $22k, it may seem steep until you consider its branding potential in food-tech or consumer goods.
'In domains, foresight can be more valuable than hindsight.' - Yours truly
Your Portfolio in this Domain Wonderland
Alright, let’s talk turkey - how does all this affect your portfolio? If you're sitting on generic or long-winded domains from yesteryear thinking they'll hatch golden eggs — think again. It's time for a portfolio audit with today’s metrics: brandability, TLD diversity, and potential use cases across industries.