- How to avoid falling into traps where somebody takes the money and doesn't complete the deal
Stick with reputable sellers and buyers. Use an escrow service. For small transactions, use Paypal if you trust the seller/buyer, or if you're willing to take the risk that the other party might file a false chargeback, or pay you via a hacked Paypal account.
- Intellectual Property (IP) issues associated with buying a website, namely, the domain name and the content of the website (who owns it, liabilities etc)
I think if you purchase website content that is breaching intellectual property laws, then there's a possibility that you can also become liable. For example, if the website you purchase published infringing material, and you continue to publish this material after the purchase, you'd be liable.
If you buy a domain name that infringes on another party's trademark, then you could lose that domain to them.
- Fake ownership transfer/ selling to multiple parties etc. (not sure if such a thing can happen, but would like to be forewarned.)
Yes, fake ownership most definitely happens! See:
Lots of Stolen Domains and
Domain Theft. The last article offers tips on how to protect yourself from domain fraud.
- Verifying creditials of seller - genuine? good track record? etc.
Do a background check on the buyer/seller. Check iTrader reputation. Do they have a certified account with Sedo? Stick with reputable buyers/sellers.
- Issues with respect to domain registrar/ host and transfers etc
Beware of
domain phishing.
Beware of
domain appraisal scams.
msdomains, I've probably forgotten to add some things. However, I hope other INForum members can also provide you with some tips.
Best of luck, and happy domaining!