Step 1, Define the job your website must do
Before talking to anyone, write down the single most important action a visitor should take: call you, fill in a form, book, or buy. Every decision about pages, design and features should serve that goal.
A website that 'looks nice' but doesn't generate enquiries has failed. Clarity on the goal stops you over-paying for features you don't need.
Step 2, Match the package to your stage
New business with no site? A LaunchPad (£300 + VAT) gets you live in a week. Growing business needing to edit content and add a blog? A Growth package (from £2,495 + VAT) with a CMS. Established business needing integrations, AI or a portal? A Pro build (from £4,995 + VAT).
Don't over-buy at the start, but don't under-buy either, rebuilding a cheap site that can't grow costs more in the long run.
Step 3, Check what's included
Confirm in writing: mobile-responsive design, SEO fundamentals, professional copywriting, hosting setup, an enquiry form and a handover. A CMS (so you can edit) and a blog are only included from Growth upwards at most agencies.
Step 4, Confirm ownership and ongoing costs
You should own the site, domain and content outright. Ongoing costs are hosting and maintenance (from £49/month), there should be no licence fees tying you to one supplier.
Frequently asked questions
What's the cheapest way to get a business website?
A LaunchPad site at £300 + VAT gives you 4 pages live in 7 days. It's the lowest-risk way to establish a professional presence, and it's upgradeable as you grow.
Do I need a CMS?
If you'll update content regularly (news, vacancies, menus, blog), yes, it's included in Growth and Pro packages. If your content rarely changes, a Starter site without a CMS is fine.
Is hosting included?
Hosting is usually a small ongoing cost from around £49/month bundled with maintenance. Your website itself is a one-off cost you own.
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