Well, it finally occurred to me that my domain NAME was 'legally' stolen, since the renewal notice they SENT me went to an email account that I had closed. My fault, I guess. So I missed getting to renew my domain name and someone scarfed it up. NOW if I would like to have it back, I have to pay a minimum of $888!! I only paid about $5 to begin with!!!
MY QUESTION IS......what is the best way to go about getting my domain name back without paying that outrageous price? How can I be perched and ready to pounce, just like they were, to buy this back when it expires again?
Also, if this question COULD BETTER be answered in a different category, please advise. THANKS IN ADVANCE!
:-/Unfortunately the only options you have are:

1. Pay the outragous ransom.
2. Wait until that domain expires (hoping no one else buys it) and then buy it.
3. Get a different domain.

Because it expired it's no longer your domain and 100% all in the hands of the new owner.Contact the people or persons concerned,in selling the domain to you:Read the distant contract.