For small businesses and sole traders, the promise of a quick, low-cost website can be tempting. Platforms like Wix, Squarespace and others offer instant setup — but what you save in pounds upfront, you may lose in performance, credibility, and long-term control. Here's why investing in a custom-built site is smarter than settling for a template.
The Hidden Costs of “Cheap” Websites
Many DIY platforms advertise low monthly fees—but those prices often rise after the first year. Essential features like contact forms, analytics, or SEO tools are locked behind upgrades. And while the templates can sometimes look slick, they rarely reflect your brand’s personality or values.
Performance Pitfalls That Drive Customers Away
Bargain hosting often means shared servers, slow load times, and poor mobile responsiveness. These issues frustrate visitors and hurt your search rankings. A sluggish site can make your business look unprofessional—especially when competitors load in seconds.
Why Custom-Built Sites Deliver More
A hand-crafted website is built around your goals, your audience, and your brand. It’s faster, more secure, and easier to optimize for search engines. You get clean code, full ownership, and the flexibility to grow—without being tied to a platform’s limitations.
Real Value vs. Sticker Price
A custom site may cost more upfront, but it’s an investment in your business’s reputation and discoverability. With transparent pricing and no hidden fees, you know exactly what you’re getting—and your site works harder for you from day one.
In Conclusion
Your website should be more than a placeholder—it should be a tool that builds trust, drives traffic, and converts visitors into customers. If you're ready to move beyond templates and invest in something built for your business, let's talk. I build websites that work hard for small businesses—without the hidden costs.