Ask five agencies to quote for a website and you'll get five very different answers. That isn't usually because someone is overcharging (though it does happen). It's because "a website" can mean anything from a template with your logo dropped in to a custom online shop. Here's how to make sense of it.
Why quotes vary so much
DIY builders and templates are the cheapest route. They can be fine for a hobby, but they're rarely fast, rarely rank well and often need replacing within a couple of years.
Professionally designed business websites are where most local businesses should be: a design built around your brand, a mobile-first build, SEO foundations, help with the words and someone accountable when you need changes.
Larger builds, such as online shops, booking systems, membership areas and sites for multi-location businesses, cost more because there's simply more to plan, build and test.
What actually drives the price
- Number of pages and templates: ten unique page designs take longer than three used well.
- Copywriting: writing that brings in enquiries is a skill, and "we'll just use your text" is where many projects stall for months.
- Functionality: bookings, payments, calculators and member areas.
- SEO groundwork: proper structure, speed and page titles built in from the start, which is much easier than adding them later.
- Who's accountable: an agency that answers the phone costs more than a freelancer who may disappear. That accountability is usually worth it.
Questions to ask before you sign
- What exactly does the quote include?
- Who writes the content?
- Will I be able to edit the site myself?
- Is SEO included in the build, or an extra?
- What happens after launch: support, hosting and updates?
A good agency will answer all five clearly. If the answers are vague, expect the final invoice to be too.
How we price
We don't have a price list, because no two businesses need exactly the same thing. We quote every job individually after a free chat, and the quote sets out exactly what's included before any work starts. If you'd like one for your business, get in touch and we'll give you an honest answer.
Need a hand with this?
My team and I help businesses of every size get more from their websites and marketing. Book a free chat and I'll point you in the right direction, even if you don't work with us.
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