Launching your first website? It’s thrilling, but it’s easy to overlook the real costs. Many assume it’s just about hiring a designer, grabbing a domain, and tossing in a few images. Done deal, right?
Not so fast.
Web design projects often hide costs that can creep up on you. Some are minor but pile up quickly. Others can blow your budget out of the water. And when you’re working with a cheap website designer, these surprises can sting even more—because low prices often mean shortcuts somewhere.
Here’s a rundown of what to watch for to keep your budget in check.
1. Domain and Hosting May Not Be Part of the Deal
To get your site live, you need a domain name (like mybusiness.com) and hosting (the server that keeps your site online). Some designers bundle these in. Many don’t.
Domains typically run $10–25 annually. Hosting can be $6 a month for basic plans or $40+ for something sturdier.
Newbies often think these are one-off costs. Nope. They’re recurring, and you’ll need to renew them regularly.
2. Templates Can Come with Hidden Fees
A website template might seem like a budget-friendly shortcut. But sometimes, the “free” template isn’t free at all—or it’s missing key features.
You could end up paying:
- Extra for premium features.
- Licensing fees for commercial use.
- A developer to tweak a rigid template.
By the time you’ve patched up the cheap template, you might’ve spent more than a custom design would’ve cost.
3. Stock Photos Aren’t Always Free
Some designers pull free images from the internet. Others expect you to supply your own. If you don’t have quality photos, you’ll likely need to buy stock images.
These usually cost $8–25 per image. Multiply that across a full site, and it adds up.
Worse, using unlicensed images by mistake can lead to legal headaches. Not the kind of surprise you want post-launch.
4. Extra Revisions Can Get Pricey
Most design packages include a set number of revisions—maybe one or two rounds. Go beyond that, and you’re paying by the hour or per tweak.
First-timers often need more changes because they’re figuring out what they want as they go. Those extra edits can rack up fast.
Ask upfront: How many revisions are included? What’s the cost if I need more?
5. SEO Might Not Be Included
A stunning website is useless if no one can find it.
Search engine optimization (SEO) helps your site show up on Google. It covers things like meta tags, image alt text, and site structure. Some designers include basic SEO. Others skip it or charge extra.
If you’re hiring a cheap website designer, don’t be surprised if SEO isn’t part of the package. A gorgeous site that’s invisible online isn’t worth much.
6. Mobile-Friendly Design Might Cost Extra
You’d assume every modern site works on phones. Not always. Some designers treat mobile optimization as an add-on.
You could end up with a site that looks great on a desktop but breaks on a smartphone. Fixing that after the fact costs extra.
Always confirm: Is mobile optimization included from the start?
7. Writing Content Might Be on You
Designers focus on visuals and layout. But who’s writing the text?
Some assume the designer will handle it. Many don’t—or they’ll use filler text and expect you to provide the real stuff. If you’re not ready, you might need a copywriter, which can cost $300–$1,500 depending on your site’s size.
That’s a big expense to discover mid-project.
8. Maintenance Isn’t a One-and-Done
A live website isn’t a “build it and leave it” deal.
You’ll need updates for software, plugins, or security. Some designers offer maintenance plans. Others leave you to handle it—or hire someone else.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to broken features or security risks. It’s cheaper to maintain regularly than to fix a broken site later.
9. Low Prices Can Lead to High Costs
A cheap website designer might seem like a steal. Sometimes, they deliver solid work. But often, there’s a catch.
They might skip browser testing, use outdated tools, or disappear after payment. If your site breaks or needs a redo, you’re paying someone else to fix it. That “bargain” can end up being your priciest option.
Final Tip: Ask the Right Questions Early
You don’t need to be a tech wizard. Just ask clear questions before signing on.
- Who handles the domain and hosting?
- How many revisions are included?
- Is the site mobile-ready?
- Do you provide content, or do I?
- Is SEO part of the package?
- What about ongoing support?
It’s your website. Know exactly what you’re paying for.
Bottom Line
A website is a big investment. Hidden costs can sneak up, but they don’t have to. Whether you’re working with a high-end agency or a cheap website designer, stay proactive. Ask questions. Check the details.
Paying less now doesn’t always mean saving money later.
