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Is it safe to buy and sell IP addresses in a place like an auction? After all, there are many websites representing the auction-style networking market for limited numerical resources. Usually buyers and address owners avoid such auctions, except when they need a small block of addresses. So, what do you still need to consider before buying / selling at auction?
It is clear that before buying any product, the buyer wants to know everything that concerns him. In the case of IP addresses, this is the history of routing and geolocation, for what purposes they were used, whether it was blacklisted, whether it is blocked now. Most network markets have an advantage in this regard, since they allow you to find out the IPv4 range before the start of trading. A knowledgeable buyer can find out this information himself and or attract a broker.
The seller also wants to be sure that the buyer knows what he is dealing with – whether he understands the process of transferring the address space, conditions and payment method. Sellers should be aware of the purposes for which the transferred IP address will be used. Many owners of IP addresses consider this a problem, as it can affect their clean reputation.
Another problem is that the seller cannot participate in the selection of the buyer at the auction. But he can use the services of a broker who can help to make a deal in such a way as to satisfy the needs of the two parties.
It is wrong to think that an auction is a great opportunity to draw attention to the IPv4 address block being sold. Many organizations simply cannot carry out an operation at auctions, since each of their actions must be carried out according to the norms and approved by the relevant agreements.
In addition, auctions last for a limited time – no more than a week. During this time, it is difficult to find the ideal buyer or seller.
In the network markets, a contract is drawn up, which sets out all the conditions and details of the transfer of the address space, which are negotiated in advance by the parties. The conclusion of the contract saves the seller and the buyer from all possible further problems. At the same time, there is no guarantee at the auction that in reality you will get what you wanted. Without a valid contract, the parties have no legal protection after the transfer of the IPv4 address.
The cost of IP addresses at auctions does not always coincide with market prices. Be prepared for the fact that the auctioneer can decently inflate the price, which is very different from the value indicated by the seller. It is usually hard to find the real value at such auctions, but it is better to do this in advance. Beware of fake offers, where specially inflated prices are set.