If you can’t get in touch with the owner, check when the domain is set to expire. After a domain expires, the current owner has a short grace period, during which time the site is shut down but he or she can still renew it, usually for 30-40 days. After that, it may take another month before the domain becomes available to the public. You can either wait and try to purchase the domain once it’s available, or sign up for a wait-list service to be the first in line if the domain goes on sale. Several companies offer this type of service for a non-refundable commission. Of course, if the domain owner renews, you’ll be out your commission fee.