One of the most common questions I get is, “Where is the best place to buy a domain name?”

You need a domain name if you want to build your author website. Think of the domain name as the title to your own piece of internet real estate. You can’t develop the property by building a website until you own it. And just like there are zoning laws, there are certain domains have restrictions as well (not just anyone can create a .gov or .edu site).

As an author, your domain name is important. You won’t be able to get away with something long, flowery, or obscure. No one will remember it.

The domain name should be simple, easy to remember, and preferably, your own name.

Check your domain availability.

One of the most frustrating things is coming up with a perfect domain name and then finding out that it’s already taken. Don’t let your hopes get out of control. Check the availability of the domain before you set your heart and hopes on buying it.

If you have a common name, you’ll have to get creative. That’s what Nicole M. Miller (NicoleMillerBooks.com) had to do to avoid people confusing her with Nicole Miller, the fashion designer. Same name, completely different people.

Build your website around your writing name. If you are using an assumed name for your writing, purchase the domain that goes along with it.

I personally like to use Instant Domain Search. The results come up in real-time, showing me where I can purchase the domain name, what other similar domain names are available, and how much a premium domain name with similar words would cost.

Tweetables:

Buy your domain name from a trusted source.

Don't use GoDaddy to register your domain

At Author Media, we’ve used many companies to buy domains. I use Bluehost, (Affiliate Link), Hannah uses NameCheap (Affiliate Link), and Thomas has his own favorite (his least favorite is GoDaddy, click here to find out why).  Clients also have their pet favorites.

Remember, buying a domain is not the same as buying website hosting. You can buy a domain from one company and choose to host somewhere else. It’s perfectly fine.

Try NameCheap (Affiliate Link) the next time you are in the market for a domain.

You can purchase your domain name for a year at a time, but for your author website, I would suggest buying as much time as you are comfortable with. Ask yourself how long you plan on being a writer. That’s a great way to gauge how many years you need your domain name.

Feeling overwhelmed? You can schedule a free website consultation. We can answer your questions about websites, domain names, and hosting.

What company did you buy your domain name from? 

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