I know there are some experts on this forum who can answer better than I.
My apporach is to refer to domain names as "web properties". A good property, or name, can be likeled to desirable commercial property such as a storefront in the business district. If your client is willing to settle for a lesser valued domain, this can be likened to setting up shop in a garage way or a smal hard to find side street. Your friends will come but you will eventually need to move more centrally if you make it.
Just my humble 2 cents..