Why Local Businesses Choose Us Over the “Free” Website builders

In our previous article, Free Website Builders vs. Custom Web Design, we broke down the key differences between DIY website builders and working with a professional designer — what each can do, how they compare, and how to decide what best fits your business needs. If you missed it, you can read it here: Free Website Builders vs Custom Web Design.

In this follow-up post, we’re taking that conversation a step further. Below, you’ll find a clear, side-by-side comparison of the Traverse Web experience versus today’s popular DIY website builders. Just like every free website builder is different, the same is true for website design firms — and those differences matter.

At Traverse Web, our level of customer service is what truly sets us apart. We answer our phones during business hours, and if we miss your call, we return it the same day in most cases. When it comes to website updates, we’re fast — many changes are completed the same day, and if something requires more time, we’ll let you know and give you an estimated completion window.

Our hosting plans also include one hour of basic updates per month, something most hosting companies don’t offer. Beyond front-end updates, we also take care of essential back-end maintenance — keeping your themes, plugins, and security components updated so your site stays healthy and running smoothly.

As you review the comparisons below, ask yourself:

Are you getting this level of service from your current web design or hosting company?

At a Glance: Cost Breakdown

Feature

DIY Website Builders

Our Team

Domain-Based Email

$60–$150/year per email address

✅ up to 10 email addresses Included

Tech Support

Often Chat-Only or Delayed

✅ Real Local Humans

Design Time

20–40+ Hours

✅ Done for You

Basic SEO Optimization

Usually Extra

✅ Included

Analytics Integration

DIY or Add-On

✅ Included

Hosting & Maintenance

$200–$2000/year

✅ $300/year (includes support & updates)

What You Get With Us

✔ Custom basic 6-page website – $1,000
✔ 12-page package – $1,500
✔ Built on WordPress with a custom theme
✔ Optimized for search engines
✔ Google Analytics & Search Console setup
✔ Mobile responsive design
✔ Hosting on secure thoughtfully managed servers
✔ Domain-based email
✔ Ongoing support and updates (1 hour/month included)
✔ Same-day responses to most requests

The Human Difference

  • We’re local. Based in Traverse City.
  • We’re responsive. Real people answer the phone 9–5.
  • We’re fast. Most updates or requests are handled same day.
  • We’re trusted. No hidden fees, no upsells, no stress.

You Could Spend 30 Hours Building Your Website…

Or you could have it done right the first time—for a flat fee—with zero hassle.

Let’s Talk

Ready to skip the DIY headaches and get a site that works for you?

📞 231-409-5999

Website Design Plans