Transfer only after payment is secured
The golden rule: never begin transferring assets until the buyer's payment is confirmed in escrow. Escrow protects both sides — the buyer knows the money is only released once they receive what they paid for, and you know you'll be paid once the transfer is verified. Agreeing on escrow terms before you start removes the biggest risk in any private sale.
Move the domain
The domain is usually first. Depending on the registrar, you'll either push it to the buyer's account at the same registrar or provide an authorization code to transfer it elsewhere. Unlock the domain, disable privacy if required, and hand over the auth code — then confirm the buyer has control before moving on.
Hand over hosting, files, and the database
Next, transfer the website itself: files, database, and any CMS. You can migrate to the buyer's hosting or hand over your hosting account, depending on the deal. Take a full backup first, document the tech stack, and make sure the buyer can load the site on their own infrastructure before you consider this step done.
Transfer accounts and access
Work through every connected account: analytics, ad networks, affiliate programs, email service, social profiles, and any supplier logins. Change ownership where the platform allows it, and reset shared passwords. A tidy, itemized list of accounts and their status prevents the loose ends that sour a deal after closing.
Support the transition, then release
Provide the agreed transition support — often a couple of weeks of email help — so the new owner can operate confidently. Once the buyer confirms everything works and is in their control, escrow releases the funds. A smooth, well-documented handover is the difference between a clean close and a dispute.
- Never transfer anything until payment is secured in escrow.
- Order: domain, then hosting/files, then connected accounts.
- Document the stack and itemize every account and login.
- Offer transition support; escrow releases on buyer confirmation.
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