It's interesting to meet new domainers and learn what exactly it is that keeps them ticking. Discussion forums like NamePros.com make it possible to obtain a global reach, and network with domainers from all over the globe.
I've been in the business now for nearly a decade, and to be honest, I've changed my own angle on domaining at least a handful of times. I'm sure anyone that's been in the business for that long, or longer can say the same thing... "If I'd only known then what I know now!"
Of course we all start out wanting to make some easy money... but it isn't long before we all come to terms with the fact that domaining isn't a "get rich quick" scheme, and that a lot of hard work, time and money can go into building a substantial, investment quality domain name portfolio, or web network.
So the big question is... what kind of domainer are you?
Buy and Sell for the quick flip
This is by far the way most people entering the biz appear on the scene. The appeal of buying something for $7-10 dollars and then flipping it for $20-30 knocks most people's socks off. Now, if you can do that 10 times per day... you'd be golden!
Buy and Hold for the long term
This seems like a safe bet, right? It very well can be. It's not affordable for most people to buy those valuable domain names with built in traffic that earn a healthy revenue... but if you have time on your side, holding domain names as a long term investment can be a good plan. Putting some work into the names to increase their value over time is like adding money to your piggy bank. After so long, you crack that pig open, and you've hit the jackpot!
Buy and Develop
Not everyone that buys to hold long term takes advantage of development options. This could be due to lack of experience, or know-how! In either case, there are always options, and if you are driven toward success... you will find a way to get your domain value up... and development is a sure-fire way to accomplish this. You don't have to be a genius, or even know anything about programming or coding. For a few dollars a month, you can get yourself a hosting account. Most hosts offer what is called "Fantastico" - this is a collection of ready-to-install scripts. You simply select the script you want to use, like WordPress.. fill in some details, and presto... instant blog... instant money making machine. Just add content. FYI, I use PolurNET for my hosting needs. They have plans starting at $4.99 per month!
In my opinion those are the 3 main categories of domainers. This can be further broken down, for example, are you a niche domainer? A niche domainer is someone that only invests in certain types of domain names... whether they be certain cctlds, like the .us or .cc. You may also invest in certain keywords, or maybe you just invest in the shorties... like 3 letter .coms, .orgs etc.
There are many different angles you can take in the world of domain names. I would like to know how you domain!
