A few commenters are starting to naysay the sale of Blog Herald. Inevitably they prefer “passion” before income and believe advertising on blogs is akin to brawling in church.

So let’s have a look at Duncan’s reasons for selling:

1. Conflict of Interest
Its becoming increasing difficult to write about blog networks when I am a part owner of a blog network. As much as I’ve been doing this stuff for years the perception is there. It may surprise some, but I’ve always tried to hold myself to some journalistic standards.

2. I need the money
It’s no secret that I’ve become a full time Problogger. However with a new house on the way (they’re more expensive than having kids ) and no other income this sale gives me the capital to cover my mortgage for the next year or two, finish things off with the house, and maybe even take my first proper holiday (ie not visiting relatives in Melbourne) in around 8 years.

3. Protecting the brand
The Blog Herald has always been bigger than I am, and although many people have gotten to know my through it, it’s still a stronger brand that Duncan Riley, blogger. Although the site continues to grow even today, it has the potential to do so much more better with an owner who can spend the time nurturing her even more than I have.

4. b5media/ other things
Jeremy writes that “[Duncan] no longer enjoying writing it as much as he used to” and to some extent this is true. Some days are a lot easier than others, but the issue of enjoyment needs to be considered with the other things I wish to do. I’m basically now working full time for b5media, from working with our bloggers, to maintenance, scripting….you name it, and I want to focus my attention here. Also I’d like to have some more time to have a go at a few new blogs as well.

It’s hard to see how anyone could disagree with those four points. In any case, it’s a personal decision. Duncan is clearly aware that, as a one-man-band, he could never take what is “the blog of record about blogging” up into the top-earning bracket in the blogosphere.

A media company could do just that.