Outright acquisition
The domain changes hands. This is the simplest structure to describe: once the agreement is concluded, the buyer controls the name for the long term.
- the domain is transferred once the agreement is concluded;
- the change of registrant follows the rules and procedures of the relevant registry;
- the buyer holds long-term control and handles renewals from then on;
- payment and terms are set out in the contract.
Exclusive use for 3, 5 or 10 years
The owner keeps the domain and grants an exclusive right of use for a fixed term. This suits a launch, a programme or an initiative with a known horizon.
- an exclusive right of use for the agreed term;
- the possibility of a 5 + 5-year structure;
- renewal only on the terms written into the contract;
- each party’s role defined for the registry, DNS, hosting and compliance;
- no automatic renewal unless the contract provides for it.
Lease-to-own
A period of use first, a possible acquisition later. This structure lets an organisation commit to a name step by step.
- use of the domain for an agreed period;
- the possibility of acquiring it if the option is exercised;
- price, instalments and conditions set out in the agreement;
- final transfer only once the agreed conditions have been met.
Which structure fits?
| — | Acquisition | Exclusive use | Lease-to-own |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Transferred to the buyer | Retained by the owner | Retained by the owner until the option is exercised |
| Term | Long-term, subject to renewals with the registry | 3, 5 or 10 years, as agreed | Agreed period, then possible transfer |
| Renewal | Handled by the new registrant | Only on the terms of the contract | According to the schedule in the agreement |
| Flexibility | Free use, within the registry’s rules | Use defined by the contract | Use defined by the contract, with a path to ownership |
| Purchase option | Not applicable | Only if the contract provides for one | Yes, on the agreed conditions |
| Operational control | Entirely with the buyer | Shared as set out in the contract: registry, DNS, hosting | Shared as set out in the contract until transfer |
This table is for guidance only. It is neither legal advice nor an offer: each structure is defined in a written agreement tailored to the project and to the rules of the relevant registry. No prices are published.
The right structure is the one that matches the project’s timeframe and ambition.
Planning an acquisition? See the three scopes and the markets covered.