How Much Does a Website Design Cost?

Let’s start by exploring the differences in services. Some website designers use templates to build your website, while others custom-build everything. There are pros and cons to both types, but it’s important to understand exactly what you’re getting.

Template Website vs. Custom Designed Website

You’ve probably seen ads online for websites that cost as low as $50. Wow, what a deal! You probably spend almost that much just filling up your gas tank. For the same price, you can get a complete website design to promote your business?

Not so fast. As the saying goes, “If it sounds too good to be true…” There’s a good reason you’re being charged so little for a service that seems like it should cost so much more.

The design you’re paying for is called a template. A template is a generic website design that will be re-sold to dozens, maybe even hundreds of businesses. The designer uses the template for your site and changes a few small things like the title of your business, your contact information, and probably the text that describes your company.

The first problem with templates is… well… they look like templates. The customers that visit your site will immediately recognize how unprofessional and unoriginal the design is. This reflects poorly on your company. First impressions make a big impact. If you didn’t care to take the time, money, and effort to build a unique website, how can they trust that you are serious about your business?

The other problem is flexibility. Most templates are pretty rigid and don’t allow space for adding new buttons, new pages, and making edits. You’ll most likely be stuck with the same website no matter how much your company grows. Ouch. Talk about suffocating.

You’ll also find that there are hidden costs. Your designer may charge a monthly fee to “rent” the template. Suddenly that $50 has turned into $500 or $1000. That’s a lot of money for a design that you’ll never own!

What Are the Benefits of a Custom Website Design?

First, and foremost, a custom design will reflect the true spirit and integrity of your company. You have something unique to offer and you know it. That’s what gave you the passion to start a business in the first place. Your website design should reflect these special services your business offers. With a customized website, your designer is going to work with you to make sure everything about your site matches your company. The colors, the fonts, the logo, the photos. It should all be an extension of your business and the service it provides.

You’ll also have room to grow. Every site that Nathan Grimes Design builds comes equipped with a Client Control Panel that allows you to quickly and easily make updates to your site. Want to add a new page? No problem. Want more buttons on the navigation bar? Done. Afterall, your business is going to grow and change over time. Shouldn’t your website do the same?

The Average Cost for a Custom Website Design

The national average for a customized website design is $2,000 – $3,000 for small businesses. Larger corporate websites and e-commerce sites may cost more because of the labor intensive requirements. But for most business websites, you should plan on spending somewhere in that range.

When you think about how important your website really is, and what the long-term benefits are of it, the price is very reasonable. You’re paying for a strong, attractive design that will leave a positive impression with your customers. You’re also receiving years worth of expert advice and experience from your designer, which can help avoid mistakes that could hurt your business.

Let’s Get Started Today

Nathan Grimes Design offers a free, no-risk phone consultation. There are no strong-arming, high-pressure sales tactics during the conversation. I’ll just talk to you, listen to what your needs are, and work with you to decide if we are a good match for what you want to accomplish with your site. Contact me today.

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