here is some tips
a) remember most domain owners get tons of those automated "I want to buy your domain" emails, make sure your email dont look like that, include a phone number, include a price offer (dont ask them what they want) and in the subject dont write, "Your domain" or Domainname.com" but rather write your domain.com looking to buy $2500
b) if you get no response use a different email provider and email them from there, many have different spam filters, and at that time change your subject too
c) mention escrow.com or any other method they feel comfortable with
d) dont ask for traffic info unless its a developed up and running site, domains even great names get shit typeins anyone who tells you otherwise never owned a solid top domain
e) state clearly that you will buy this today, not that you are thinking about it or whatever, say I have 2500 to invest in a domain for my project and your domain is one of the names I like, I can close the deal today.
f) if they have a sedo or moniker or whatever account set one up there, explain you have a account where they have the name and the transfer will be easy
g) people change their mind, someone who really wants to hold on to a domain today might not give a shit about it a month later, dont get tired of making offers
h) if you want to buy a domain called domain11.com and you notice the owners email is
[email protected] there is a good chance hes like to sell the domain but he is attached to it since he uses that email for many things, offer him a solid in writing contract that you will continue to host his emails with no problems or he has the right to take back the name
the domain market will come back strong one day, many good names out there now are available for good prices, its a good investment given you understand what a truly good domain is