Choosing a domain name
In this post, I will help you choose a domain name. This will be the “address” of your website going forward.
Like choosing a business name, choosing a domain name is pretty crucial. If you haven’t already chosen a business name, consider waiting to see what domain name you’re able to secure.
Domain names are like real estate. There are only so many, and once someone buys the one you want, you may never get to own it.
General Rules
A good rule for domain names is to try to get a domain name with no more than 2-3 words. Trying to get a one-word domain name is almost impossible, unless it’s a word or business name that you created. One-word domain names, if available, can cost into the tens of thousands of dollars. Try to avoid a domain name with more than 3 words because it will be easier for someone to forget or misspell.
Speaking of misspelling, try to avoid a domain name with a difficult-to-spell words. I once cautioned a client against using a domain name containing the word “upholstery.”
I recommend using GoDaddy for domain registration. They are a trusted name among domain registrars and offer exceptional customer service for domains.
Domain names are like real estate. There are only so many, and once someone buys the one you want, you may never get to own it.
Elsie Gilmore, Owner – Solid Red Studios, LLC
Domain Extensions
I would begin any domain search by looking for the .COM version of the name. While there are lots of different domain extensions now (apparently over 800!), .COM is still the most popular. However, I urge you to consider getting creative with some of the others, such as .TECH, .LAWYER, .INSTITUTE, .GREEN, .FARM, etc. If you want to use one of these specialized extensions, I would try to keep the first part of the domain name as short as possible. Here is a long list of all the extensions offered by GoDaddy.
Renewals
When registering your domain name, be sure to enter contact information that you are pretty sure is not going to change. You will get ample notice when your domain is going to renew, but if you change email addresses and don’t get those reminders, you could lose your domain names forever. I suggest setting your domain names up to “auto-renew”. You’ll still need to pay attention, though, in case your credit card expires and they are unable to automatically charge it.