Frequently Asked
Questions

Warning signs include: your site takes more than 3 seconds to load, it doesn't work properly on mobile phones, you're embarrassed to share the URL with potential clients, contact forms don't work or you're not getting inquiries, it doesn't show up when you Google your business name, or it looks outdated compared to competitors. If clients mention they had trouble finding information or using your site, that's a red flag. Your website should help you win business, not lose it.

Modern sites have clean layouts with plenty of white space, mobile-friendly responsive design, fast load times (under 3 seconds), clear navigation that doesn't require hunting, professional photography or graphics, and they work smoothly without broken links or errors. Outdated sites often have cluttered layouts, don't work on phones, use Flash or auto-playing music, have tiny text, broken images, or haven't been updated in years. If your site was built before 2018 and hasn't been updated, it likely looks dated.

Templates (like Wix, Squarespace, or basic WordPress themes) work fine for simple sites where you just need an online presence with basic info. Custom development makes sense when you need specific features templates don't offer, want to stand out from competitors using the same template, need integrations with your business systems, or want complete control over design and functionality. If you're competing in a crowded market, a custom site can be the difference between blending in and standing out.

Budget sites ($500-$1,000) are usually DIY platforms like Wix or Squarespace, or offshore freelancers using basic templates—minimal customization, generic design, limited functionality. They get you online quickly but often lack the performance, SEO, and professional polish needed to actually convert visitors. Custom sites ($3,000-$8,000+) include design tailored to your brand, features built specifically for your business, professional development with fast load times and security, proper mobile optimization, technical SEO, and ongoing support. A custom site is an investment designed to generate ROI through leads and sales, not just check the box of 'having a website.'

Slow sites are often fixable without rebuilding. Common fixes include compressing images, enabling caching, cleaning up unnecessary plugins, upgrading hosting, or implementing a CDN. However, if your site is built on extremely outdated technology, has fundamental structural problems, or would cost more to fix than rebuild, starting fresh might make more sense. I can audit your site and tell you honestly whether optimization or rebuilding is the better investment.

Good local SEO means when someone searches for your service in your area, you show up in results. This requires: a properly configured Google Business Profile, your site loads fast and works on mobile, your business name, address, and phone number are consistent everywhere online, you have relevant content that answers customer questions, your site structure uses proper headings and meta descriptions, and you're getting backlinks from legitimate local sources. You should be findable when people search '[your service] near me' or '[your service] Vancouver.' Want to test your SEO? Try searching for your business name plus your city—if you're not on the first page, or if a competitor shows up instead, your SEO might need some work.

Reach out via phone (778) 554-5991 or email ([email protected]). We'll schedule a free consultation to discuss your needs, timeline, and budget. From there, I'll provide a detailed proposal with scope and pricing.

To provide an accurate quote, I need to know: what type of website you need, any specific features or functionality, your timeline, your budget range, and whether you have existing branding or content. The more details you can provide, the better.

Simple WordPress sites: 2-3 weeks. Custom WordPress with plugins: 4-6 weeks. E-commerce stores: 3-5 weeks. React applications: 6-8 weeks. Timeline depends on complexity, content readiness, and revision rounds.

Yes, projects typically require a 50% deposit to begin work, with the remaining 50% due upon completion. For larger projects, we can structure milestone-based payments.

Contact me for a specific quote.

Yes! Maintenance packages include WordPress and plugin updates, security monitoring, performance optimization, content updates, and technical support. Plans start at $250/month depending on your needs.

Absolutely. I offer technical SEO services including site speed optimization, proper heading structure, schema markup, sitemap setup, and Search Console configuration. I focus on technical SEO rather than ongoing content marketing.

Yes, I build e-commerce stores using Shopify or WooCommerce. This includes product setup, payment gateway integration, shipping configuration, and basic design customization. I can also help with more complex headless commerce solutions.

WordPress is great for content-heavy sites, blogs, and most business websites. It's easier to manage and has a mature ecosystem. React is better for web applications, custom dashboards, or sites needing complex interactivity. I'll recommend what fits your needs best.

Yes! I build sites so you can manage content yourself. WordPress sites have an intuitive admin panel. I provide training and documentation for any custom features. You'll never be locked into paying me for simple content updates.

I don't provide hosting directly, but I can recommend reliable hosting providers and help with setup. For WordPress, I typically recommend SiteGround or WP Engine. For static sites, Railway, Netlify or Vercel. I'll guide you through the process.

Absolutely. Every site I build is mobile-first and responsive. With over 60% of web traffic coming from mobile devices, this is non-negotiable. Sites are tested on multiple screen sizes before launch.

I'm based in West Vancouver, BC. I'm available for in-person meetings in Vancouver, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. I also work remotely with clients across Canada via video calls.

We'll have an initial kickoff call, then regular check-ins via email or video call. I provide updates at key milestones and share a staging site so you can see progress. You'll never be left wondering what's happening.

Minor tweaks within the first two weeks are included. Larger changes or new features can be quoted separately. Maintenance clients get priority support for ongoing updates and changes.

Yes, I'm happy to sign an NDA if needed. Every project includes a contract outlining scope, timeline, payment terms, and deliverables. This protects both of us and ensures clear expectations.

Yes! I can update, redesign, or add features to existing sites. Whether it's WordPress, Shopify, or custom code, I can evaluate what you have and recommend the best path forward.

I focus on development and technical work. For content writing or photography, I can recommend professionals I've worked with. You can also provide your own content, and I'll integrate it into the site.

Yes! For clients needing regular updates, new features, or ongoing support, I offer retainer arrangements. This gives you priority access and a set number of hours per month at a discounted rate.