Pay monthly website or web agency: how they compare.
Both can give you a good website. The difference is mostly in how you pay, what happens after launch, and how easy it is to leave.
How you pay
Many agencies quote a project fee for the build, paid upfront or in stages, and some add a monthly retainer for hosting, changes or marketing. A pay monthly plan spreads the cost: a smaller setup fee, then a regular fee that covers the site and its upkeep.
Contracts
Some agency retainers and some pay monthly plans come with a minimum term. Always ask how long you are committed for and what it costs to leave early. Conciergia has no lock in contract, and you can cancel anytime.
Changes after launch
With a project fee, changes after launch are often quoted separately or billed by the hour. On a pay monthly plan they are usually part of the fee, so check whether there is a cap. Every Conciergia plan includes unlimited revisions.
Everything around the website
A website on its own rarely brings in enquiries. Search, a Google Business Profile, email, enquiry handling and social posts are often separate services from separate people. Conciergia runs them as one system for one weekly fee.
When an agency is the better fit
- You need a large custom build, such as a complex web app or a site with heavy integrations
- You have an in house marketing team and only need the build
- You want a fixed project you own outright from day one, with no ongoing fee
When a pay monthly plan is the better fit
- You would rather not pay a large invoice upfront
- You want someone else to handle changes, hosting and updates
- You want search, enquiries and social looked after too, without managing several providers
Questions
Is a pay monthly website cheaper than an agency?
Upfront, usually yes. Over several years it depends on what each option includes and what you would otherwise pay for hosting, changes, search and other services. Compare what is included, not only the price.
What should I check before signing either?
The minimum term, the cost of leaving early, whether changes are included, who registers the domain, and what you receive if you leave.
How does Conciergia price it?
A one off $500 setup fee, then plans from $100 a week once you approve the launch, with no lock in contract.