Domain Name Escrow: How Secure Transactions Work

What Is Domain Escrow?

Domain escrow is a secure transaction method where a trusted third party holds the buyer's payment until the domain transfer is verified complete. It protects both buyers and sellers from fraud.

How the Escrow Process Works

• Agreement: Buyer and seller agree on price and terms
• Payment: Buyer sends payment to the escrow service
• Transfer: Seller initiates domain transfer to buyer
• Verification: Escrow service confirms the transfer is complete
• Release: Payment is released to the seller

When You Need Escrow

For transactions over $5,000, escrow is highly recommended. For transactions over $25,000, it's essential. Escrow fees are usually a few percent of the transaction value, lower on larger deals.

Direct Transfer vs Escrow

Some marketplaces sell at a fixed price and take the payment themselves, which removes the escrow fee. What protects you then is that marketplace's own terms, so read them before you pay.

Common Escrow Scams

Beware of fake escrow websites. Only use established services. Never click escrow links sent by the other party — always navigate to the escrow site directly.

Our Approach

NameSale is not an escrow service. Availability is re-checked before payment, the full total is shown before you pay, and if the name cannot be delivered you get a full refund.