Introduction:

When researching website design options, you may come across agencies or platforms that advertise “free website builds.” This often raises the question: What’s the catch? The truth is, many modern agencies are shifting away from large, upfront design costs and instead bundling website builds into ongoing service agreements.

Here’s how it usually works:

1. The Website Build is Free, But Services Are Subscription-Based

Rather than paying thousands upfront for a custom design, businesses only cover the cost of ongoing services like:

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Ensures your site is visible on Google and competitive in rankings.

• Hosting & Maintenance: Keeps your site secure, updated, and performing smoothly.

This model lowers the barrier to entry, especially for startups or small businesses that can’t spend $5,000–$10,000 on a website right away.

2. Why Agencies Offer This Pricing Structure

Agencies who use this approach aren’t giving websites away for free out of generosity—they’ve simply built the cost into a monthly or ongoing service. It’s a win-win:

• Businesses get a professional, custom-built website without upfront costs.

• Agencies secure long-term client relationships through SEO and support services.

3. Benefits for Business Owners

• Lower Initial Investment: No huge upfront bill.

• Ongoing Optimization: Websites don’t just sit static—SEO keeps them growing.

• Peace of Mind: Technical updates and security are managed for you.

4. Things to Look Out For

If you’re considering this kind of pricing model, make sure to:

• Read the fine print: Understand what “free” includes (is it custom, or template-based?).

• Ask about ownership: Will you own the website if you stop paying for SEO/maintenance?

• Compare value: Sometimes ongoing fees can add up to more than an upfront build over several years.

The Bottom Line

Free website models can be a smart solution for entrepreneurs, real estate agents, and small business owners who need a professional site without large upfront costs. Just make sure you understand exactly what services are included and how the ongoing fees are structured.

This type of pricing is becoming increasingly popular because it balances affordability with professional quality, while also ensuring your website stays competitive in search rankings long-term.