Look at real websites, not just screenshots

Browse a few live websites the designer has built. Can you quickly tell what each business offers? Does the menu make sense? Is the site easy to use on your phone? Attractive screenshots cannot show whether a website works well for customers.

Ask how the project will work

A good designer should be able to describe the steps from planning to launch. Ask what they need from you, how you will review the design, how many revisions are included, and how they handle changes to the project. Clear expectations help avoid delays and surprise bills.

Understand the full price

Two website quotes may cover very different work. One may include mobile design, contact forms, basic SEO setup, and training; another may charge extra for each. Ask for a written list of what is included, what costs more, and when payments are due.

Know what you will own and control

Your business should control its domain name, core accounts, and content. Ideally, your designer should have the access they need without being the only person who can manage your site. Ask who owns any custom code, design files, and licensed images—those details depend on your agreement.

You should also know how to move to another designer if you ever need to. A professional relationship should not depend on you losing access to your website.

Find out what happens after launch

Will you be able to change a photo, update a service, or publish a blog post? Is training included? Who fixes issues, and is support charged hourly or monthly? Ask these questions before the site goes live, not after something breaks.

Pay attention to communication

A designer should ask about your customers, services, goals, and budget before recommending features. They should explain options in plain language and be willing to say when something is unnecessary or outside the project scope.

Warning signs to watch for

  • No written agreement or clear description of the work.

  • Vague pricing or unexpected charges that are not explained.

  • Unclear answers about who controls your domain and website account.

  • Promises of guaranteed first-place Google rankings.

  • Little attention to mobile usability or accessibility.

  • Pressure to buy features before anyone has discussed your business needs.

Ten questions to ask a web designer

  1. What is included in the quoted price?

  2. Which platform do you recommend, and why?

  3. What will you need from me, and when?

  4. How many revisions are included?

  5. Will the website work well on phones and tablets?

  6. What basic SEO and accessibility work is included?

  7. Who will own the domain and website account?

  8. Can I update the website myself?

  9. What support is available after launch?

  10. What happens if I hire someone else later?

The bottom line

Choose a designer who asks good questions, sets clear expectations, and builds around your customers. A website is an investment in your business, and you should understand both what you are buying and how you will manage it.