How Chris Clark Turned a $20 Domain: In a digital rags-to-riches story that still inspires entrepreneurs, Chris Clark turned a simple $20 domain name — Pizza.com — into a jaw-dropping $2.6 million payday. This isn’t just a lucky break; it’s a real-world lesson in digital real estate, patience, and vision. If you’ve ever wondered how a domain name can change a life, you’re about to get the full scoop.
Clark, a Maryland-based consultant, bought Pizza.com in 1994, thinking it could help him market his software business to pizza franchises. Fast forward 14 years, and his once-basic domain became one of the most expensive .com sales in internet history.
How Chris Clark Turned a $20 Domain
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Domain Purchased | 1994 for $20 |
| Domain Sold | 2008 for $2.6 million |
| Original Use | Promote software consulting to pizza franchises |
| Inspired By | Vodka.com sale in 2006 for $3 million |
| Domain Sale Platform | Sedo.com (Domain auction site) |
| Key Takeaway | Patience, relevance, and simplicity can turn digital assets into serious cash |
| Source | Wired |
Chris Clark’s $20 gamble on Pizza.com is a masterclass in digital foresight and patience. While we can’t all predict the future of online trends, we can learn from stories like his. Whether you’re looking to invest in digital real estate or just curious about internet history, this tale proves that a small idea can bake into a big payday. Don’t underestimate the value of simplicity, timing, and a little digital hustle.
How It All Started — $20 and a Hunch
Clark’s Simple Idea
Back in 1994, the internet was the Wild West. Websites were few, and domains were like unclaimed land. Chris Clark, running a small software consultancy, had an idea: buy a name that pizza companies could use. So, he paid $20 to register Pizza.com.
He didn’t know it would make him a millionaire. At the time, he just thought it was a catchy domain that could bring business to his door.
Holding Onto the Gold
Paying $20 a Year for 14 Years
Clark sold his consulting company in 2000 but kept Pizza.com. Every year, he paid a small renewal fee — just $20. For years, it sat unused. He tried to make money by placing ads and linking to pizza content, but revenue was minimal.
Then he saw something big.
The $3 Million Wake-Up Call
In 2006, a domain called Vodka.com sold for $3 million. Clark was floored. If a liquor name could fetch that kind of cash, what about pizza — arguably America’s favorite food?
So in 2008, Clark listed Pizza.com for auction on Sedo, a popular domain sales platform.
The Auction That Shocked Everyone
From $100 to $2.6 Million
The auction started small — just $100. But within days, the bids soared. It finally closed at $2.6 million, and Clark walked away with a life-changing check.
He called the experience surreal: *”I had no idea if anyone would even be interested. I was just testing the waters.”
Lessons for Aspiring Domain Investors
Whether you’re a tech nerd or a total beginner, Clark’s story proves that digital assets can be powerful investments. Here’s how to learn from his success.
1. Choose Simple, Relevant Names
Names like Pizza.com work because they’re:
- Easy to remember
- Popular/common terms
- Related to major industries
Domains that end in .com and are under 15 characters tend to hold the most value.
2. Be Patient
Clark waited 14 years. The domain game isn’t get-rich-quick. But if you’re patient and smart, a small annual investment could someday turn into millions.
3. Watch Market Trends
Knowing when to sell is crucial. Clark jumped in just as e-commerce and local food delivery were booming.
Where Is Pizza.com Today?
Despite being one of the most expensive domain buys ever, Pizza.com isn’t owned by a major chain like Domino’s or Papa John’s. Instead, it’s a content and ad portal linking to pizza-related news and local offers.
Should You Buy Domains Too?
It’s not 1994 anymore, but domain flipping is still alive and well. Every day, short, niche, or brandable domains are bought and sold for profit.
Tips for Beginners
- Start small. Buy a few $10–$20 domains.
- Stick to areas you know: sports, food, health, etc.
- Look for names that could become brand sites.
- Use tools like GoDaddy Auctions and Namecheap.
FAQs On How Chris Clark Turned a $20 Domain
Q: How much did Chris Clark pay for Pizza.com?
A: Just $20 in 1994.
Q: How much did he sell it for?
A: $2.6 million in 2008.
Q: Why was Pizza.com so valuable?
A: It’s short, memorable, and tied to a huge industry — pizza.
Q: Can you still make money flipping domains today?
A: Yes, especially with niche names and brand-friendly domains.
Q: Where can I buy or sell domains?
A: Try platforms like Sedo, GoDaddy Auctions, or Namecheap Marketplace.
