I was looking through a list of domain names to potentially back order on NameJet a couple of nights ago when I came across something I found interesting that I hadn’t seen before. Listed above the NameJet search results were two other domain names with the same keyword in a different extension, and there was a Buy Now button next to each. You can see it in the screenshot above.
I did a bit of digging, and I was able to see that the Buy Now domain names are Afternic listings. I reached out to NameJet General Manager Matt Overman, and he sent me a press release from April 30th announcing the news, which I completely missed somehow. I also haven’t seen those listings before despite bidding on dozens of auctions since the announcement.
I think this partnership should be good news for Afternic sellers who now have a captive audience searching for a particular keyword. Not only are these names being shown to domain buyers who are ready to purchase or bid on domain names, but most of these buyers have their credit card information on file at NameJet, making the purchase process easy.
From what I understand, there is no additional commission being charged to sellers for Afternic sales made via the NameJet channel, so it’s a also a win for sellers. In addition, sellers do not have to opt in to have their buy now names listed on NameJet. Domain names will only show up when a visitor searches for the exact match keyword.
In October of 2012, the companies had announced a gTLD marketing and sales partnership, and it looks like the relationship has expanded.
I would be interested in hearing what you think of this new opportunity, both from the buyer’s side and the seller’s side. I would be especially interested in hearing from people who have bought or sold names through the NameJet channel. Are transfers and payment fast?
On a side note, speaking of NameJet and Afternic, these two companies are c0-sponsoring a June 25th Boston Meet up to benefit One Fund Boston. There are 11 tickets available, so register now!
