Add Listing Verification, Feedback System — Afternic To

Domain aftermarket to add fresh features, time frame unclear.

Domain name aftermarket Afternic is adding two fresh features. One I support 100%, the other one gives me a couple concerns.

The first feature is a listing verification system. Domains will be verified for proper ownership when they’re listed. But the system will also periodically verify ownership while a listing is live. This is a great feature that will reduce the chances of “buying” a domain that really isn’t listed for sale. Honestly, it will even help me as a seller. When I sell a domain through a different venue than Afternic, I don’t always remember to delete the domain at Afternic. It will be helpful if the site alerts me to the ownership change. Of course, the system will need to account for various ownership names that a seller’s domains are listed under (e.g. multiple firm names).

The second feature is a feedback system similar to eBay. This could be helpful if implemented correctly, but I have two concerns:

1. Every member ought to have 100% feedback. If they have one bad transaction (either they don’t pay or they don’t end up selling the domain) they ought to be kicked off the platform provided there aren’t extenuating circumstances.

2. I don’t want sellers to know that I’m a “regular”. If they see I have a feedback rating of 20, they might assume I have deeper pockets to buy their domain.

It’s great to see that Afternic is innovating. The verification program will improve the quality of the exchange. As for the feedback system…the jury is still out.