Well I'm going to do my best to answer your questions here Srividya.
Q1: Where can I buy Domain names?
(I read that it is not a good idea to buy domain names at the same place where I am going to host my websites as the hosts would demand a ransom or create trouble if I decide to transfer my website to a different host at a later date. Is this true?).
Answer:
This can be true about where you buy your domain. I have heard a few horror stories about some people not being able to claim thier domain when they wanted to switch hosting etc.
As much as I hate to say it, I've heard of SiteSell doing this to people.
Personally, for my domains I bought them at a separater registrar and then I point my domain to my hosting accounts server. So it shouldn't be a problem for me.
There are all sorts of places to buy domain names. Just have a lood around and you will find lots.
Q2: Why are extentions like ".info" are cheaper than ".com", ".net" etc?
Are there any guidelines regarding the content if you have a particular extention? Does the search engines give more preference to .com sites rather than .info, .name, .biz etc ?
Answer:
The reason domains with these extensions are in some cases less money is because they are far less popular. By all rights unless you have a .gov site or something similar I would always go for the .com extension if you can simply because most people are more conditioned to think in .com terms and they are easier to remember because basically when it comes to remembering domain names we are creatures of habit and attaching a .com extension is almost a habit since the inception of the internet.
Q3: As I am going to promote affiliate products, I think it is better to choose host that allow multiple domains (Correct me if my idea is wrong). And suggest me which would be the best place in your experience.
Answer:
Yes I would say it's one of the wisest choices if you can host multiple domains on one account. Bluehost allows six in their basic package.
Q4: I am from India and these hosts are based in U.S. I read somewhere that the hosts would ask proofs like photocopy of passport or some identity. And I may have to make international calls to U.S. to confirm my identity. Is that correct ? If I have to send material proofs then it will take ages to reach them.
Answer:
I really don't know how to answer that one as I have never had to apply for my own service that way, since I'm from Canada. In my case I didn't have to supply things such as this.
My suggestion is here. If I was you I think that I would signup and get your site up and running with Holly and her Cheekyo service.
For one thing Holly's service does use Bluehost for the hosting which means you would be able to have up to six domains on the account.
Another reason is, being a member of our community here, if you have any questions about something Holly knows her own service better than anyone. So you will be assured that you will be well taken care of.
http://www.cheekyo.comQ5: If I am not satisfied with the service of a host, is it very difficult to transfer the domain name and the content to another place[/b]. Should I have the back up of all the content to host it another server ?
Yes it can be a pain in the butt to change your accounts over at times. It all depends on the hosting company etc. handling the transfer etc. Yes it would be wise and necessary to back everything up.
Suggestion:
As above, use Holly's service!!
Cheers and hope that helps Srividya
Davin