How long does it take to build my website?
Most projects are completed within 2-3 weeks from our initial consultation. This includes design, development, content setup, and training. Complex projects with custom features may take a bit longer, but I’ll give you a clear timeline upfront.
Get started with a free quote →
What’s included in the £500 setup fee?
Everything you need to launch your website:
- Custom design tailored to your brand
- Fully functional Content Management System (CMS)
- Mobile-responsive layout
- Basic SEO setup
- Comprehensive training on managing your content
- Complete website bundle (static site export)
You own 100% of your website bundle. No restrictions, no lock-in.
What is the “website bundle” and do I own it?
The website bundle is a complete, self-contained version of your website exported as static files. It includes all your pages, images, styling, and functionality in a portable format.
You own this bundle completely. This means you can:
- Host it anywhere you want (Netlify, Vercel, your own server, etc.)
- Move it to another provider at any time
- Keep it forever, even if you stop using my services
Think of it like buying a house vs renting. The bundle is yours to keep and do with as you please. Unlike platforms like Wix or Squarespace where you lose everything if you stop paying, your website bundle is yours permanently.
Do I really own the website code?
You own the exported website bundle (the files that make your site run). I retain ownership of the underlying code framework but you can host and use your site anywhere forever.
What if I want to cancel the hosting service?
No problem at all. If you’re using my optional £100/year hosting service, you can cancel anytime. I’ll provide you with all the files and help you migrate to another host. There are no penalties or hidden fees.
Your website is yours to take wherever you want.
Can I update the website myself?
Yes! Every website includes a user-friendly Content Management System (CMS). You can easily update:
- Text and content
- Images and media
- Blog posts
- And more
No technical knowledge required. I provide full training during the handover, and you get 12 months of free content updates via the CMS after launch.
What is a Content Management System (CMS)?
A Content Management System (CMS) is a user-friendly interface that lets you edit your website without touching any code. Think of it like editing a document in Word, but for your website.
How it works:
- Log in to your CMS dashboard from any web browser
- Click on the page or content you want to edit
- Make your changes using simple text fields and image uploads
- Click “Save” and your changes go live
You can update text, swap images, add blog posts, change menu items, and more. It’s designed to be simple enough for anyone to use, regardless of technical skill.
The CMS connects directly to your website, so changes you make are reflected on your live site. No need to contact me for simple content updates—you have full control.
The level of customization in the CMS is tailored to each client’s needs and skill level. During setup, we’ll configure it to give you the right balance of control and simplicity.
JoeSturge Builds vs Wix/Squarespace
The main differences are ownership and cost:
| Feature | JoeSturge Builds | Wix/Squarespace |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You own the bundle | Platform owns it |
| Setup cost | £500 one-time | £0 |
| Ongoing cost | £100/year (optional) | £150-400/year (required) |
| Contact forms | Included | Extra fees or limits |
| Can cancel? | Yes, take your site | Lose your site |
| Performance | Very fast | Slower |
| Customization | Unlimited | Limited |
With platforms like Wix, you’re renting your website and paying forever. With JoeSturge Builds, you pay once and own everything.
Do you offer ongoing support and maintenance?
Yes! After launch, you get 12 months of free content updates via the CMS. This means you can edit your own content anytime, and I’m available to help if you get stuck.
Within the first year, I can also make changes outside of the CMS (within reason) at no extra charge. This includes things like:
- Layout adjustments
- Adding new sections
- Style tweaks
- Minor functionality updates
After the first year, ongoing support is included with the optional £100/year hosting package. This covers:
- CMS support and assistance
- Technical troubleshooting
- Security updates
- Site monitoring
- SSL certificate management
For larger changes or custom features beyond the scope of basic support, I offer those as optional extras at competitive rates.
Can you help me with an existing website?
Absolutely. I can:
- Build you a new, better website using your existing site as inspiration
- Migrate you away from Wix or Squarespace to a platform you actually own
- Help you escape platform lock-in with a fresh, modern site
- Recreate your content and design (but faster, cleaner, and better)
Note: I don’t manage or work on sites hosted on other platforms (Wix, Squarespace, WordPress.com, etc.). Instead, I build you a brand new website that you own, using your current site as a starting point.
Every project starts with a free consultation.
What areas do you serve?
I’m based in Southampton and work with clients across Hampshire and throughout the UK. Most of my work is done remotely, so location isn’t a barrier.
I’m happy to meet in person if you’re in the Southampton area.
What types of websites do you build?
I specialize in websites for:
- Freelancers and consultants
- Musicians and artists
- Small businesses
- Personal portfolios
- Professional services
- Local businesses
Whether you need a simple portfolio, a business site with a blog, or something with custom features, I can help.
How do payments work?
Simple and straightforward:
- £500 upfront to start the project
- £100/year hosting (optional, first year free)
The £500 is paid before I begin work. At my discretion, I may accept a non-refundable deposit to secure your project slot, with the remainder due before completion.
Payments are accepted via GoCardless and invoices will be sent to your email. No hidden fees.
What if I need help after launch?
I’m here to help! You can:
- Email me anytime with questions
- Request minor updates (included with hosting)
- Book additional work for larger changes
I don’t disappear after launch. Your success is my success.
Ready to Get Started?
I’d love to help you build your website. Get a free consultation and quote today.
Based in Southampton, serving clients across the UK. Established 2025 · No platform lock-in · You own your website