When ever someone asks me to build a web site for them, I generally do my best to get out of it. It’s not that I don’t want to build their site. It’s not that I don’t want to maintain the site. I just don’t want to charge them for it… To the people who visit this site because I gave you my card, this message is for you. It’s important to understand the true cost of a quality web portal. Most of the developers I know charge 50 to 100 dollars an hour to build a website. Couple this with hosting and a good website can be expensive. The truth is that there are hundreds of free WYSIWYG website builders out there. This leads customers with some internet savvy to believe that building a quality comprehensive website is as easy as point and click. But - and this is my opinion - those websites look awful. It’s always obvious to me when someone has used a website builder to tack together a crappy little site. The really great looks require a level of skill beyond most people. Thats why artists and Devs charge so much. To be completely honest, 50 bucks an hours is on the low side. Chances are, you won’t get a quality design for any less and should prolly shoot for double that.

When I say that, I often get the sad face. Aw, I didn’t think it’s cost that much. People think I’m trying to rip them off. Truth is, quoting 300 dollars scares off the people who aren’t serious about their site. I don’t build sites for a living, so I can be picky about who I work for. I know you won’t find a better dev for less, so I don’t feel guilty if you go another direction.

For those who are still willing to work with me, Wordpress has provided me with a level of compromise.

Wordpress allows me to build a site, provide advanced functionality and keep it very simple. Customers can make changes to the layout, pages and sidebars without emailing me - cuz then I’d have to charge for that (unless maintenance is included in the package. I make sure its useable and clean looking. Then I turn them loose.

Call me if I’ve given you my number. Email me if I slipped you my card. We’ll work something out. When we’re done, you’ll have a kickass site that does exactly what you want for a relatively low price.

*shrug* who could ask for anything more?