Mike Mann: The Evolution from BuyDomains to Sex.com to DomainMarket | Saw.com
Jan 17, 2024
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Mike Mann, a significant figure in the domain industry, discusses his journey from founding BuyDomains to Sex.com to DomainMarket. He talks about building a 200,000 domain portfolio, the process of appraising domain names, the challenges and affordable appraisals for domainers, and his advice for budding entrepreneurs. Don't miss the negotiation over a domain and his involvement in charity work.
Mike Mann's early entry into the domain industry through Internet Interstate and his regret in undervaluing domains in the past.
Mike Mann's strategies for building a large domain portfolio and his current approach to valuing and selling domain names.
The increasing significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the domain industry and the potential benefits of leveraging AI for efficiency and domain value assessment.
Deep dives
Diverse Experience and Success in the Domain Industry
Mike Mann, a successful entrepreneur in the domain industry since the 90s, discusses his journey, including founding, selling, and being part of major domain brands. He highlights his focus on creating, purchasing, and selling domain names, as well as his involvement in the development of domain search technology. Mike emphasizes the importance of persistence, self-made success, and giving back through his non-profit work.
Entering the Domain Industry in the Early Days
Mike shares how he got into the domain industry in the 90s. He explains that, based on predictions of the commercial potential of the Internet, he decided to establish a company called Internet Interstate, which focused on connecting small businesses to the Internet. As the Internet evolved, his interest in domains grew, and he started collecting relevant domain names for his clients' industries. He also discusses his early understanding of the potential value of domain names and his regret in selling valuable domains too cheaply in the past.
Cultivating a Valuable Domain Portfolio and Successful Sales
Mike delves into his experiences in building a large domain portfolio, highlighting his methods of acquiring domain names through various means, including purchasing and generating names from databases. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the depth and breadth of domain names' potential value, considering factors like potential buyers and brandability. Mike discusses his current approach to valuing and selling domain names, mentioning the significance of demand, traffic data, and the option for payment plans. He also discusses his goals for further developing his other businesses and charitable endeavors.
The Importance of Data Research in Domain Pricing
Pricing domains involves a combination of data analysis and gut feeling. While the data system provides valuable insights, manual research is necessary to confirm a domain's value. The number of inquiries a domain receives is a key metric for deciding whether to renew it. Domain marketplaces like Domain Market and Uniregistry adopt different strategies when it comes to capturing buyer information. The objective is to determine demand and establish the conceptual value of a domain, which helps in pricing accurately.
The Growth and Importance of AI in the Domain Industry
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly significant in the domain industry. AI systems like Chat GPT offer APIs for developers to build customized services on top of them. Leveraging AI can greatly improve landing pages, appraisals, and search optimization. While AI technology continues to evolve rapidly, there is a vast scope for innovation and development. Companies like huge domains, GoDaddy, and Newfold could benefit greatly from integrating AI into their operations to maximize efficiency, pricing, and domain value assessment.
Join us for an enlightening conversation with domain industry pioneer Mike Mann. With a legacy spanning back to the mid-1990s, Mike has been instrumental in shaping numerous leading brands and innovations that continue to define our industry today.
From his groundbreaking ventures like BuyDomains and DomainMarket.com to iconic domains like Sex.com and the .CO extension, Mike's contributions have left an indelible mark on the digital landscape. But it's not just about business—Mike's unwavering commitment to philanthropy shines through his work with organizations like Grassroots.org and Make Change, where he continues to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
In this interview, we delve into Mike's journey, from founding BuyDomains to curating a portfolio of over 200,000 domains. We explore the strategies behind domain management, discuss recent sales, and even engage in a live negotiation over a domain one of our clients is eager to acquire.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from one of the domain industry's most influential figures. Tune in today and discover the stories behind the domains!"
About Saw.com
We’re passionate about digital assets here at Saw.com. It’s our mission to create a transparent environment where you know what’s happening with every step of your domain sale or acquisition (and secure the best possible price!)
About Jeffrey:
Jeffrey M. Gabriel is the founder of Saw.com, a boutique brokerage that specializes in acquiring, selling, and appraising domains. With over 14 years of experience in the domain industry, Jeffrey has a proven track record of closing multimillion-dollar deals and delivering exceptional value to his clients.
Jeffrey's core competencies include remote team management, online marketing, and strategy. He is passionate about helping businesses and individuals achieve their online goals and dreams. He has been involved in some of the most notable domain sales in history, such as Ai.com, Sex.com, and Poker.org. He is also a Guinness World Record holder and a frequent speaker and writer on domain-related topics.
