Three ways to get a site, what each really involves, and the running costs that catch people out.
Website builders charge a small monthly fee and are fine for a simple page. The real cost is your time, and the result often looks and performs like a template.
A one-off project fee for a site built around your business. Usually the best fit for a shop or local service business that wants it done properly without agency prices.
Strong for big, complex projects, but the price and process are usually more than a small business needs.
Renewed every year. Make sure it's registered in your name, not the designer's.
Where the site lives and your professional address, such as hello@yourshop.co.uk.
Who changes your opening hours or fixes a problem next month, and what they charge for it.
Good copy and real photos make a bigger difference than design. Check whether they're included.
A fixed price with a clear list of what's included beats an open-ended hourly rate.
You should own the domain, the content and the site. Avoid anything that locks you in.
Ask to see it on a mobile, and ask what's done to help local customers find you.
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