The four options side by side
Here's how the four common routes compare for an owner-operated business:
| DIY website builder | Freelancer | Agency | Patton AI redesign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who builds it | You | One designer or developer | A team | Connor Patton, Franklin TN |
| Upfront cost | Your time | Varies widely | Usually the highest | $1,000 / $2,000 / $3,000, fixed |
| Ongoing cost | Monthly builder subscription | Hosting plus billed changes | Retainers are common | None from us; you pay your host |
| Time to launch | As fast as you can build it | Depends on their schedule | Often several weeks | 7 days or 24 hours |
| Who owns it | Content yes; site tied to the platform | Depends on the contract | Depends on the contract | You — site, domain and accounts |
| Getting found on Google and AI | Up to you | Depends on the freelancer | Often a separate service | Included in the $3,000 package |
When a DIY website builder makes sense
Website builders like Wix and Squarespace are a good fit when you enjoy doing it yourself, have evenings to spend on it, and need a simple site. The trade-off is your time — and the site lives on the builder's platform, so moving it later means rebuilding.
When to hire a freelancer
A good freelancer can give you a custom design at a lower price than an agency. Ask to see live sites they've built, get the price and timeline in writing, and make sure the contract says you own the domain, the site and the accounts.
When an agency is worth it
Agencies make sense for bigger projects — many pages, complex integrations, or ongoing marketing with a team behind it. Expect a longer timeline and a higher price, and check what's in the monthly retainer.
When a fixed-price fast redesign fits
If your site is outdated and you want it fixed this week at a known price, a fixed-price redesign fits. Patton AI's packages are $1,000 (live in 7 days), $2,000 (live in 24 hours) and $3,000 (redesign plus an AI marketing and SEO strategy for more Google leads) — one-time prices, and you own everything.
“Connor built me a custom website that finally matches the way I do business. It's fast, it looks sharp on a phone, and my clients notice the difference.”
Questions to ask before you pick
Whoever builds it, ask:
- Can I see live sites you've built?
- What's the total price, and what costs money every month after launch?
- When will it be live?
- Do I own the domain, the site and the accounts?
- Will it be set up so Google and AI assistants can find and recommend my business?
Frequently asked questions
Should a small business use Wix or hire a web designer?
Use a builder like Wix if you have the time and want to do it yourself; hire a designer if you'd rather spend that time running the business and want it done right the first time.
What's the fastest way to get a professional small business website?
A fixed-price fast redesign — Patton AI's 24-hour package ($2,000) goes from kickoff to live in 24 hours once it has your logo, services and domain access.
Who should own my small business website?
You should — the domain, the site and the hosting accounts should be in your name no matter who builds it.