I already hold the trade mark in one country for the name that I wish to hold the domain name in. I also have registered the domain name with a few other commonly used extensions, but not .com as it is taken and parked. It has never been used and is due for renewal in May 2007. I found out this info from whois and that's all I know. The domain name is my business name(which is trade marked) and we are small fish (just me), but an eBusiness none the less. All this to say is, I'd love to get *****.com, but not sure how to and I haven't got big $$ to throw about. I have not contacted them directly as I don't want them to suddenly attach a huge price to it once they know I am interested. What do you think? TIA.
Your best bet might be to backorder it or wait and see if it drops. Other option would be to have a trusted 3rd party approach them to see if they might sell. This usually inflates the price on the spot.
If one backorders, does the act of doing so alert the individual(s) that currently has it registered?
I really don't know the answer to that one. I don't think I would use that option anyway. Best bet is to mark your calendar and do a whois right about the renewal date to see if it has been renewed. Don't keep checking on it between now and then. You only inflate the traffic count and create interest. If the parked page does not have a "the domain may be for sale" on it chances are it is either a forgotten domain or the owner is covering the hosting fees with the parking.
This is brilliant info. Thanks I have made a note in my diary as suggested too. When you type in the domain name, nothing comes up. So perhaps there is hope. ..again thanks and Happy Holidays!