I’ve a separate list in my notes tracker. When an idea or a project re-emerges couple times, it’s time to launch a landing page and get a domain.

In the middle of the night, about 3 years before I start working on the idea.

If it's relatively inexpensive, I just buy the domain. Helps motivate me get the project started even if it doesn't workout in the end.

Only when I see that I have a chance to make a project from it. I fact, I have one of my side projects but Is a subdomain

Unlike everyone else. I buy a domain randomly when I am sad or down, same way my girlfriend buys a new dress when she's sad. I know its not normal but I can't help it.

I buy the domain first. When I finish the project, AWESOME. When I don't finish the project, I unregister the domain, 'cause I am not a A-Hole domain hoarder. :)

I like to buy them early because it gives me a motivation to start working on the product. Usually I just chuck a very simple email sign up onto the page with my value proposition so I have something for people to click and sign up if interested.

Marketing and branding first. I check the potential market and run a benchmark so I know what domain I can use. For example, I bought a domain for an association that takes care of elderly people. In the beginning, I just wanted to put the name of the association, but then I wasn't sure about the extension (.org, .fr...) because of its location. So we ran market research and based on the competition and what people searched on Google, we chose the domain that would work best.

after I discussed it with close friends (#realitycheck) otherwise I would end up with a ton of domains :D

always have a stash of names in had as you work on your idea, if it a great idea and you can't shake it off go check which one is available and claim it

I also purchase the domain as soon as possible. My accountant says I spend way too much money on domain names but my opinion is that if it's there you've got to jump on it. To reduce waste, I often turn unused domain names into SEO testing domains. That way, at the very least, the registration cost goes toward learning.

Well, when you launch your landing page you need one. Buying a domain does not mean your startup is a successful business or that it will not change overtime. Dont think of it like that, cause that will misguide you in the journey. Think of the domain as the light inside a dark room. You need to switch the light on for people to see what you are building. That's all. I bought a domain 7 months before my product was live, just for the landing page. Just make sure you buy a cheap one :P

First decide if you intend to pursue the online business idea. Before purchasing the domain name it makes sense to examine the domain names of rivals and industry leaders. Then take note of any keywords they use as well as their domain extension.

Buying domain names is an addiction by itself for me haha I usually buy the domain when I come up with a good name. Sometimes that's the first thing, sometimes it takes a while

I think it is better to get it at the start but I have heard companies just buying them when they are bigger and it is more important. Apparently Zoom paid $2 million. So maybe it is better to just worry about if you can even get to the point where it even matters and then just ball out and buy it.

I tend to do the same mistake of buying the domain as soon as the idea swings by, i start my search for a good name and baam its bought :) thats why i have around 30 domains lurking around... haha

@aaronoleary on the positive side, maybe one day, your unused domain could give you some good return on investment ;) I would buy a domain once I know I will proceed with the idea.

Controversial opinion: If you don't own the {.com} domain, you don't own the company. Signal is key on day 0.

I'm probably the worst example of domain buying, but I have a rule. I buy the domain once I know I am really keen on the idea / space and at that time consider this a serious business to get into. I buy this way usually within 10 days of the idea popping into my head. In these 10 days I typically try and get basic validations in place for the idea (market and potential, competitors etc.); but then I give myself 1 year to either do that business or junk the domain!

Right after I decide that I'm going to work on it. I don't buy a domain name because I have a "great idea." If I feel like I'm commited to it, then yes, I'll register a domain name.