Domain Purchase Checklist

Domain is 15 characters or less (easier to remember and type)

Domain is easy to spell and pronounce

Avoid hyphens and numbers (harder to communicate verbally)

Not too similar to existing brands (trademark check recommended)

Domain name is relevant to your business or brand

Check WHOIS records for current owner

Verify social media handles are available (Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn)

Check primary TLDs (.com, .io, .co) in addition to your target TLD

Search for common typo variations to protect your brand

Google the domain to check if it's already in use elsewhere

Search USPTO or WIPO trademark database

Ensure domain doesn't violate copyrights

Check if business name is available in your jurisdiction

Consider international trademark implications if expanding globally

Consider consulting with a trademark attorney for premium domains

Domain length is optimal for URL structure (50-60 chars total)

Plan for professional email addresses with this domain

Plan for SSL certificate (https://) security

Understand DNS requirements and nameserver setup

Plan for redirects from alternative domain extensions

Domain name allows for business growth and pivoting

Consider SEO keywords relevant to your niche

Domain is professional and appropriate for your industry

Domain name is consistent with your brand voice

Plan to keep domain for minimum 3-5 years

Choose reputable registrar (Hostinger, Namecheap, GoDaddy)

Enable WHOIS privacy protection (protects personal information)

Set up auto-renewal to avoid losing your domain

Compare renewal prices across registrars

Verify registrar offers good customer support