A new website is a major investment for any business, so it’s natural that owners and decision-makers have plenty of questions before getting started. As a digital marketing agency that has built and hosted over 150 websites, Terra Ferma Media has answered countless queries from clients looking to launch or revamp their online presence.
Here are the five most common questions we hear from business owners planning a new website – and our expert advice on each.
1. How much does a new website cost?
This is almost always the first question clients ask, and the honest answer is: it depends. Website costs vary based on factors like:
- The number of pages required
- Custom design vs. template-based design
- Advanced functionality (e.g., e-commerce, membership portals, booking systems)
- Content creation and SEO setup
- Ongoing maintenance and hosting
At Terra Ferma Media, we provide cost-effective, tailored solutions for owner-managed small businesses. A simple brochure-style website will cost less than a fully integrated e-commerce platform. The key is to define your budget and business goals upfront, so your website delivers real value without unnecessary costs.
2. How long will it take to build my website?
Timescales vary depending on complexity, but a standard small business website typically takes 6 to 12 weeks from concept to launch. The process involves:
- Planning & discovery – Understanding your business, audience, and goals (1-2 weeks)
- Design & development – Creating layouts, coding, and adding functionality (4-8 weeks)
- Testing & launch – Ensuring a smooth user experience and going live (1-2 weeks)
Delays often occur when clients take time to provide content or feedback. To keep the project on track, we recommend agreeing on deadlines upfront and having key assets (e.g., branding, images, and text) ready.
3. Will my website be mobile-friendly and SEO-optimised?
Absolutely – any modern website must be mobile-responsive and SEO-friendly to perform well.
- Mobile responsiveness: Over 60% of web traffic now comes from mobile devices, so your site must adapt to different screen sizes.
- SEO best practices: We ensure your site is built with search engine optimisation (SEO) in mind, including fast loading speeds, optimised images, structured content, and keyword-rich metadata.
At Terra Ferma Media, we integrate SEO from the ground up, helping your site rank well from day one.
4. Will I be able to update my website myself?
Yes! Most business owners want control over their website content without relying on developers for minor updates. That’s why we build sites on WordPress, the world’s most user-friendly content management system (CMS).
We also offer training and ongoing support, ensuring you can:
- Add or edit pages and blog posts
- Update images and text
- Manage e-commerce products (if applicable)
For businesses that prefer hands-off management, we provide website maintenance packages, so your site remains secure, up-to-date, and running smoothly.
5. What should my new website include?
A great website isn’t just about aesthetics, it should be built to attract and convert visitors into customers. At a minimum, your website should feature:
- A clear homepage that explains what you do
- Service or product pages that highlight your offerings
- Contact information and lead generation forms
- Testimonials or case studies to build credibility
- A blog or resources section for ongoing engagement
- Fast, secure, and mobile-friendly design
At Terra Ferma Media, we take a strategic approach to website development, ensuring your site not only looks good but also works hard for your business.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right website development partner is crucial. At Terra Ferma Media, we provide expert, jargon-free advice to help businesses get a high-performing website without unnecessary complexity.
If you’re thinking about a new website, we’d love to chat get in touch for a free 30 minute consultation
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