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No, You Can’t Buy a Quality Website for $299

Why “cheap” sites end up costing you more


A real website takes expertise, creativity, SEO strategy, and collaboration — not a chatbot, template dump, or bait-and-switch deal. If you’ve seen quotes for $200–$400 for a 5–7 page site, here’s the truth: that’s not web design. That’s a trap.


I put this post together because it makes me sick to my stomach seeing people get ripped off, and if I can just prevent a handful of people from falling into this trap, it will be well worth my time.


Laptop on desk with lamp, plant, and cup. Text reads: "No, You Can’t Buy a Quality Website for $299. Here's why (and how to avoid getting burned)."

The $299 Illusion

Let’s be real — you’ve seen the ads:

“Full website! 5 pages! SEO included! Only $299!”

Sounds great until you realize what you’re actually getting.

At best, you’ll get an AI-generated, cookie-cutter site with zero SEO, no originality, and no help when something breaks. At worst, you’ll get locked into hidden monthly fees, lose ownership of your domain, or discover your “designer” disappeared after collecting the deposit.


A website is your public face, digital handshake, and 24/7 sales rep.

You wouldn’t trust laser eye surgery for $299, right? So why trust the thing representing your business every day to the cheapest bidder?


Close-up of an eye with a laser beam and digital overlay. Text reads, "Would you trust LASIK for $299? Don’t gamble with your website."

Would you trust LASIK for $299?


Think of it this way:

  • Would you pick a $299 surgeon for your eyes?

  • Hire a $299 accountant to manage your taxes?

  • Or buy $299 brakes for your car?


Your website deserves the same logic. It’s not “just a few pages.” It’s your reputation, discoverability, credibility, and lead generator.


What goes into a real small-site build (and why it takes time)


Below is our lean, budget-conscious scope for a 5–7 page marketing site. It covers the essentials without cutting corners.


1. Strategy & Discovery (≈1 hr)

Laser-focused goals, audience clarity, sitemap sketch.


2. IA & Navigation (≈0.5–1 hr)

Simple, intuitive structure and menu flow.


3. Content Polish / Coaching (≈2 hrs)

We refine your copy for clarity and conversion.


4. Design Customization (≈3 hrs

)Smart template use, branded colors, fonts, and mobile styling.


5. Build & Content Entry (≈4–5 hrs)

Responsive layout, forms, and CMS basics done right.


6. SEO Essentials (≈1–1.5 hrs)

Titles/meta, headings, internal links, image alt text.


7. Performance & Accessibility (≈1 hr)

Optimized images, contrast checks, and basic accessibility review.


8. QA & Launch (≈1–1.5 hrs)

Cross-browser spot checks, SSL setup, and final polish.


9. Training & Handover (≈0.5 hr)

Editor walkthrough + admin ownership transfer.


10. Project Management (≈1 hr)

Scheduling, feedback rounds, approvals.


Honest hours total: ~15–20 hours for a solid small-site build.

Flat project around $1,800, covering about 15–20 hours (≈ $90–$120/hr effective rate).



Speech bubble on blue background with "HOW MUCH does it COST?" in bold lettering. Text in black and orange, creating an inquisitive mood.

Realistic budget ranges (so you can plan)


  • Lean essentials (templated, guided): $1,500–$2,200 (our average ≈ $1,800)

  • Custom, brand-forward design: $3,500–$8,000

  • Complex, integrated sites: $8,000+


It’s not about spending the most — it’s about spending wisely for a site that works, ranks, and converts.


FAQ: Web design prices & averages


Q: What are typical web design prices for a small business site?

A: Most quality 5–7 page websites range between $1,500 and $2,500 — our average project is about $1,800.


Q: Why do prices vary so much?

A: Because “website” can mean anything from an AI template to a full custom experience with SEO and branding.


Q: What’s the average cost for website design in 2025?

A: For small businesses, the average price for website design ranges between $1,800 and $5,000, depending on goals and content readiness.



Red-flag checklist


🚩 Domain not in your name

🚩“Unlimited revisions” promise

🚩 No SEO or analytics setup

🚩 Mandatory monthly fees or vague deliverables

🚩 “We’ll handle hosting for you” (translation: you don’t own it)


When you see any of those, it’s time to walk — or better yet, run.



Bottom line


Cheap websites always cost more in the long run — in lost leads, wasted time, and having to rebuild from scratch later.


When you invest in a professional, certified Wix Studio Designer, you’re investing in peace of mind, credibility, and growth.


Because a website is not an expense — it’s your digital foundation.


Book a free consultation today:


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