Someone Already Owns Your Dream Domain? Here’s What to Do Before You Panic

You ever typed in the perfect domain name, only to find someone else already owns it? That feeling? It’s like getting the wind knocked out of you especially when you’ve got a logo saved, social handles picked out, and a business plan ready to go.

But here’s where most new business owners go wrong: They SETTLE!

They grab the .co, .net, or add an extra word like “shop” or “official.”

Spoiler alert: That’s not the fix you think it is.

Worse, if the current domain owner is selling something similar, you could be stepping into a trademark conflict and yes, that means potential legal drama.

🚨 The Real Question You Should Be Asking:

Do they own the trademark? Because domain ownership ≠ trademark ownership.

Before you register an LLC, grab an Instagram handle, or invest in branding, here’s what you should do:

1. Do a Trademark Search – Check if the name is already registered and even if it's not registered, check to see if another business is using the same or similar name.

2. Investigate Their Business – Are they in the same or similar industry?

3. Assess the Risk – Could customers confuse your brand with theirs?

   
   

If the answer to any of these questions are yes, you may need to consider changing the name all together. A clear name = a strong foundation. Once you know the name is available, file that trademark and own your brand legally.

Don't let a taken domain stop your business dreams. Let it be the wake-up call to do a trademark search to secure your brand the right way.

Need help running a trademark search or filing? Click here to schedule a consultation.