With more and more people wanting to sell their existing websites, we have decided to put together a list of helpful tips to make the process simpler for those who are considering selling their website:
- List your website for sale on several reputable websites that specialize in helping with the sale of web properties.
- Decide whether to just list your website or get help from a website broker.
- If you decide on using a website broker expect to pay them a commission that is based on a percentage of the sale price. There is no “set” or “standard” commission for the sale of a website but they can range from as low as 4% to as high as 25%. Ultimately, it’s up to you as a savvy seller to negotiate the best commission rate. Contracts with web brokers can be short term or long term and exclusive or non-exclusive. As a seller you must decide what fits your situation best.
- Do your due diligence. Many people think that only the buyer needs to do his/her due diligence when buying a website. Sellers need to do so too. First of all “know your buyer”. Find out as much information you can about the buyer to make sure he is legitimate. Do your homework.
- Memorialize the sale of the Website in writing. Use a Website Sales Agreement form.
- Use an escrow service for the transaction. Make sure that all conditions for the sale are met before escrow is closed and that ownership of the website is transferred to the buyer.
- While the old saying goes “Buyer Beware” as a seller you should abide by the more appropriate “Seller Beware”. Always remember that if it sounds too good to be true it probably is.
Selling a website can be a rewarding endeavor. However, there can be some risks involved. Educate yourself, and use these tips to help protect your rights.
