When it comes to building a small business website, prices are all over the place. You might see ads promising “$499 complete websites” right next to agencies charging $10,000 or more for the same number of pages. So how do you know what’s worth it, and what’s a waste of your budget?
The answer comes down to three things:
1. What’s included
2. The quality of design and development
3. The long-term support and results you get
1. The “Too Cheap to Be True” Website
We’ve all seen them, one-size-fits-all templates, no customization, no SEO, no thought about how your customers will actually use your site. Sure, the price might be $500 or less, but you’ll usually end up paying for it later with poor search rankings, slow load times, and lost opportunities.
2. The Over-Priced “Agency” Build
On the flip side, you might find large agencies charging thousands more than necessary, often because you’re paying for layers of overhead and account managers rather than direct work on your site. The results may be beautiful, but you’re not always getting better performance or service.
3. The Balanced Approach
At Mario Lima Design, we focus on value, not just cost.
Full Custom Websites: For thousands less than the big agencies, without cutting corners on quality or performance.
Template-Based Websites: Lower-cost option for clients who care more about budget than full customization. Not our top recommendation, but far better than generic site builders.
SEO Services: To make sure your website gets found on Google and drives traffic.
Website Maintenance Plans: Keep your site updated, secure, and performing its best.
Hosting & Support: Fast, reliable hosting with real human support, no waiting on endless support tickets.
What You’re Really Paying For
A professional design that reflects your brand and appeals to your customers.
Mobile-friendly and responsive layouts that work on all devices.
SEO best practices baked in from the start.
Performance optimization so your site loads quickly.
Ongoing support, so you’re never left stuck when you need a change.
The Bottom Line
A good small business website is an investment, not just an expense. Done right, it’s one of the most powerful tools you can have for building trust, attracting customers, and growing your revenue.
Ready to find out what’s right for your business?
Contact me today for a no-pressure chat about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a good website for under $1,000?
You can get a website, but not usually one that performs well long-term. Budget builds often skip SEO, performance, and customization — which means less visibility and fewer conversions.
What’s the average cost for a small business website?
For a professionally built, multi-page site with SEO and custom design, many agencies charge $5,000–$10,000 or more. At Mario Lima Design, you get the same high-end quality for thousands less than the big guys—without cutting corners on performance, security, or style.
Why pay more when there are cheaper options?
Cheap websites often look fine at launch but fail to attract visitors or convert them into customers. You’re paying for results, not just pages.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes — we can break your project into manageable installments.
0 Comments