There are hundreds of websites that provide domain search services. This can be a challenging process to find a name. Even though most search services return results that are phonetically similar, there is no way to read through the listings to try and find a gap in the name iterations that are so prevalent. Instead, you must search each exact character permutation to try to find an unused name. Yes, a thriving one.
Shorter names are easier to type, and remember.
Make it memorable. Use hyphens only if you have to. Most surfers prefer to just type words together without spaces, rather than remembering to add the hyphens. Consider registering common misspellings as well. Position yourself differently from your net competitors.