How domain acquisition works
Every transaction is handled personally by Vaughan IP Holdings Limited rather than through automated marketplace software. The process below is deliberately simple and is designed to give both parties certainty.
- 01
Initial enquiry
You contact us regarding a specific domain, ordinarily through the enquiry form on its page. There is no obligation and no requirement to state a budget.
- 02
Confidential discussion
We discuss the intended commercial use and establish whether there is a genuine fit. Discussions are private and are not disclosed to other parties.
- 03
Agreeing commercial terms
Terms are agreed directly between the parties, including consideration, timing and any conditions relevant to the transfer.
- 04
Acquisition agreement
A short written agreement records the parties, the asset, the consideration and the transfer mechanism. Either party may involve its own advisers.
- 05
Payment
Payment is made in accordance with the agreement. Where either party prefers it, a recognised escrow service can be used at the acquirer's election.
- 06
Transfer
The registration is transferred through the applicable registry and registrar processes: the domain is pushed to the acquirer's registrar account, or an authorisation code is issued so it can be moved to a registrar of their choosing.
- 07
Change of registrant
Where required, we assist with the change of registrant and contact updates, and confirm that control of the registration has passed correctly before the matter is closed.
- 08
Confidentiality
Exact Domains does not publish transaction details. Where an acquirer requires formal confidentiality, this can be recorded in the agreement.
On pricing
Prices are not published by default. Domains are ordinarily offered on the basis of price on application, and terms are established once the intended use is understood. We do not operate artificial urgency, comparative pricing or bidding of any kind.
What is included
An outright acquisition transfers the domain registration to the acquiring party through the applicable registry and registrar processes. Following completion, the acquiring party becomes the registered holder or registrant and obtains control of the registration, including the ability to use and renew it.
Continued registration remains subject to the applicable registry and registrar terms, policies, renewal fees, legal requirements and third-party rights.
Unless expressly included in the written agreement, the transaction relates only to the domain registration. It does not transfer any associated business, website, content, trade mark, goodwill or other intellectual property rights, nor does it confer ownership of the words contained within the domain name.
Commercial approach
More than one route to the right outcome
Our preference is to find a commercial structure that makes sense for both the domain and the business behind it. We are open to discussing an outright acquisition, a longer-term commercial licence or, in selected circumstances, a joint venture.
If you see a genuine commercial opportunity around one of our available domains, we are always willing to have a sensible and confidential conversation.
Licensing and joint-venture discussions apply only to domains currently available for acquisition, and each is considered individually on its merits. Domains shown as in commercial use, or otherwise not available, are not open to approaches.