Last updated: 23 October 2026 · By Maurice, freeehouse team · About 3 minutes to read
The three routes compared
| Point | Website builder | Freelancer | Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build cost | your time | fee | project budget |
| ongoing | Subscription | Hosting, often maintenance | Hosting, maintenance contract |
| your own work | high | medium | low |
| Quality | as good as your time | varies a lot | usually reliable |
| Risk | dependence on the provider | the person drops out | contract commitment |
| Speed | up to you | weeks | weeks to months |
When does a website builder fit?
When you have a small budget and some time, like designing things yourself and need a simple site. According to the pricing pages, prices run at roughly €144 to €240 a year. More under Website builders compared.
When does a freelancer fit?
When you want your own design but don't have an agency budget. Good freelancers deliver very good work. The risk: if the person falls ill, changes career or can't be reached, your site is left without support. So find out beforehand who holds the access details and how the site is documented.
When does an agency fit?
When the website is an important part of your business, you're short on time and want concept, copy, design and technology from one source. Agencies have stand-ins and processes, but it costs more and coordination takes time. At our parent agency Smith & Victory, regular website projects cost between roughly €1,000 and €24,000, depending on scope.
Which questions do I ask every provider?
- 1
What exactly is being built, and what is not included?
- 2
Who writes the copy?
- 3
What does hosting cost per year, and may the price rise?
- 4
How long does the contract run, and how do I cancel?
- 5
Who owns the source code, texts and design?
- 6
Who is the domain registered to?
- 7
Can I change content myself, and what do changes by you cost?
- 8
What happens to my website if I leave?
How do I recognise a good offer?
It answers all eight questions in writing, without you having to chase. It shows references that are online and that you can look at. And it gives you a contact person with a name and phone number.
There is a fourth route: at freeehouse an agency builds your website by hand, you pay nothing for the build and afterwards only hosting with care, cheaper than today. We answer the eight questions on the page Our promises.
Frequently asked questions
Is an agency always more expensive than a freelancer?
Usually, because more people and processes stand behind it. But there are expensive freelancers and affordable agencies.
How do I find a good freelancer?
Through references that are online, recommendations and a clear written offer.
Is a website builder worth it for my business?
If you have time and the site stays small, yes. If the site is meant to bring in customers and you're short on time, probably not.
Who owns a website built by an agency?
The contract decides. Make sure you own the source code and content and that the domain is registered to you.
Sources
- BGB § 310 Anwendungsbereich, accessed 23 October 2026
- Wix: Premiumpakete und Preise, accessed 23 October 2026
- Jimdo: Preise und Pakete, accessed 23 October 2026
Providers' prices and terms change often. What counts is what's in your customer account and your contract. Not legal advice.
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