I’ve had the same conversation at least twenty times in the last year.
A business owner contacts me saying they need a website. They found someone who can do it for $200. Should they go for it?
I always give the same answer: it depends on what you need. But let me explain what that $200 website actually costs you.
The hidden costs
A $200 website is usually built on a free template with a drag-and-drop builder. The developer spends maybe four hours on it. You get exactly what you pay for.
The problem shows up six months later when you want to add a feature. Maybe an online store, maybe a booking system. The original developer can’t do it, or wants another $500 to figure it out. The template doesn’t support it. You end up rebuilding from scratch for $2000 instead of spending $800 the first time for something that could grow.
I’ve seen this play out more times than I can count. The “cheap” site ends up costing more in the long run.
What you’re actually paying for
When I quote $800 for a basic business site, here’s what that covers. A custom design that isn’t copied from a template. The code is mine, I know how it works. Mobile responsive from day one. Security basics so your site doesn’t get hacked. And the ability to add features later without tearing everything apart.
Also, I answer the phone when something breaks. That alone is worth something.
When $200 makes sense
To be fair, there are situations where a cheap site is fine. If you’re testing a business idea and just need something online to see if it works, $200 is reasonable. If you’re a freelancer who just needs a one-page portfolio, go for it.
But if this is your main business. If customers judge you by your website. If you plan to grow. Then the cheap option is the expensive one.
I’m not saying everyone needs a $5000 site. Just don’t confuse “cheap upfront” with “cheap overall.”