It's an appraisal scam.... believe me - I absolutely guarantee it!

I've sold over 1000 domain names over the years and I have got "many many" emails saying they are interested in a name but first want an appraisal. Next thing they will recommend an appraisal company they trust (wink wink) and even may suggest a couple of legitimate higher cost appraisals companies hoping you will choose the cheapest route (their own company or the company they are scamming for on a commission basis). Appraisals are worthless and a waste of money..... always have been. Never ever pay for an appraisal even with a legitimate company IMO.

You did the right thing saying to make an offer via Sedo but I also suggest when people get similar emails (some from true legitimate potential buyers) is to point them at DNJournal.com Year to Date Domain Sales Charts for them to look at actual sales througout this year so far and then ask them to make their offer. When I receive $100 offers via Sedo (which happens) ... I often point them to that page and tell to be more realistic while making a counteroffer myself.

If you do get an offer via Sedo that you would probably accept.... let it go to auction with their 7 day format and hopefully you will get a higher bidder. If not ... you still sold the name.

DN Sale Price- Domain Name Sales Price and History is a website that keeps track of previously "published" sales which actually is a semi-fair appraisal tool when you think about. I put quotes around the word "published" because it is important for everyone to realize that many names change hands without anyone knowing about the sales ....often due to non-disclosure contracts. I've had those myself.

Again..... If they want an appraisal - it's a scam 99.99% of the time. Tell the other .01% of the people to pay for the apprasial themselves if they real need one.

Larry Wentz
Affiliate Network Directory