Are they running a business? Then you need a website; however, what are the costs associated with a website? Before purchasing a website, it is necessary to have a complete picture of the website’s cost.
At first, some expenses are obvious, such as the cost of the website developer; however, some costs are hidden and can catch one off guard. As a safety measure, here is a brief view of the possible hidden costs to confirm with the website developer and 1o ways to save on the same.
1. Domain Name Registration Fee
The domain name fee is usually not included in the website charges; hence, it is an unexpected expense that should have been included in the overall cost. Most instances require the client to purchase the domain name separately from the price of the website development.
2. Hosting Charges
Hosting fees are often excluded from the website design cost, so the client can be caught unprepared for the extra cost of website development. Always confirm whether the hosting cost is part of the website costs or if it attracts a different rate, as most website developers do not provide hosting services.
3. SSL Certificate
Websites require security features to protect them from malware or hacking from unscrupulous groups. One method of providing website security is incorporating an SSL certificate, which encrypts data between the website and its visitors. An SSL certificate is sometimes not part of the website package, and it is necessary to confirm whether the website developers include it in the package or charge extra for the services.
4. Custom Design Work
Designing a large, complex, or unique website that requires custom design work is bound to attract extra website design costs based on the complexity of the project. Should one desire unique and custom website features, the website developer is bound to ask for additional pay.
5. Content Creation and Copywriting
Website developers do not include the charges for content creation and copywriting in the website charges, so they are hidden costs. Consider confirming if the developer offers content creation as part of the initial package or if it costs extra. Utilize the services of a freelancer for content development.
6. On-page SEO
The inclusion of SEO is essential in promoting the website to the target market. Some website development charges exclude SEO charges as they are not considered part of the website. Ensure a proper review of the website package to confirm SEO charges and the cost if offered outside the website making cost.
7. Responsive Design
The developer might charge extra for creating a fully responsive website; hence, confirm the cost before initiating the website development and design. Some developers charge extra for device-responsive websites however most professional web design companies and developers consider mobile-responsiveness in their quotation. At Innomedia, we build only responsive websites.
8. Third-Party Integration
Websites that perform functions such as e-commerce require third-party platforms such as payment gateways, CRM systems, or email marketing tools. Website developers may charge separately for including these third parties, increasing the website development cost.
9. Training and Support
For most, training is necessary to gain a deeper understanding of managing the website; however, it might not be part of the website development cost. Always consult on the possible extra cost of training after the website is completed.