[e9999]

OK, it's done. Registered several names after quite a bit of research.


Main findings:


- Domain registration is dirt cheap (about $10-15/yr). But all the good names are about gone. Do at least your family name or an obvious business name right away so you can have it forever if you wish!!

- lots of registrars there. Godaddy is far the biggest and prices are as low as any other ones. Some much more expensive. I went with it thinking it'll be in business longer than most likely and may stay competitive. More services too.

- the anonymizing service is worth it in my opinion. First year free if you register 5 names or more with godaddy.

- there are services that will watch existing names to grab them for you when/if they become available.

- the "name" domain is great to have for info and genealogical purposes. Grab your family name if you still can.

- one can always add a hyphen if your favorite name is taken.

good luck!