How to choose a web designer (10 questions to ask first)
The 10 questions that separate a web designer who gets you more clients from one who just makes a pretty site. A buyer's checklist.
Start with the outcome, not the design
The right question is not 'will it look good' — it's 'will it get me more booked clients'. Ask how they'll make the site convert, not just how it will look. A beautiful site that doesn't generate inquiries is a cost, not an asset.
The 10 questions
1. Can I see real work? 2. What's the fixed price and what's included? 3. When exactly does it go live? 4. Who actually does the work? 5. How will it get me more inquiries? 6. Is it fast on mobile (Core Web Vitals)? 7. Do you set up Google/local SEO? 8. What happens if I need changes later? 9. Do you handle copy and photos? 10. Who owns the site and domain?
Red flags
No price before a call, no portfolio, 'unlimited revisions' with no fixed scope, vague timelines, and you can't tell who'll do the work. Slow, generic template output is the most common and most expensive mistake.
Green flags
A fixed price and scope in writing, real examples, a clear launch date, one accountable person, and answers framed around your customers and inquiries — not just visuals.
FAQ
Agency or freelancer?
What matters is who's accountable, the quality of the work and a fixed scope — not the label. Ask to speak to whoever actually builds it.
Should the price be fixed?
For a small-business site, yes. A fixed price and scope agreed up front protects you from open-ended bills.
How long should it take?
A focused small-business site is usually ~3 weeks. Months usually means bloated process, not better quality.