His domain name expired: how come I can register it?

I am trying to get a domain name from a cyber squatter who, I think, has let the domain name expire without renewing. I have checked the WHOIS info from several registration sites and they all show that the domain expired on May 20.

It’s now May 23 but all of the registrars say that the name is “taken” and won’t let me register it.

Is there some kind of grace period after the expiry of a domain? If so, how long must I wait?

The title of this thread should read:

How come I CAN’T register it.

Network Solutions (if that’s where it’s registered, don’t know about the rest) will keep the domain active for about another 30 days for the “owner” to pay up and send reminder notices…after about that time it will be available.

The only reason I know is I purposely let a domain name lapse and received several notices in the mail.

Try networksolutions.com & registar.com they have explanation pages of why you can’t always buy it quickly.