The Hidden Cost of a Cheap Website

We see it all the time. More and more small businesses pop up, advertising a “fully functional 5-page website” for R 2000 or less. Meanwhile, established companies like Webnova are suddenly seen as overpriced. But let’s break this down, because the truth is: that cheap website might be the most expensive mistake a business can make.

Not all Websites are created equal

Here’s the thing: anyone can throw together a website these days. There are drag-and-drop builders, free templates, AI tools—you name it. But just being online isn’t enough anymore.

A website should be more than a digital brochure. It should be:

  • Strategic – aligned with your business goals
  • Responsive – mobile-friendly and fast
  • Optimised – built with SEO and conversions in mind
  • Secure – protected from hacks and data breaches
  • Professional – reflecting your brand’s value and credibility

Unfortunately that’s not what you get when paying for a cheap website.

What do you get for a professional quote?

Let’s be clear: we’re not charging higher quotes because we feel like it. We’re charging for the level of work, thought, and detail that goes into crafting something that actually works.

Here’s what our professional quote typically includes:

  • Discovery & Strategy Session
    We ask real questions. What’s the goal of the site? Who’s your audience? What actions do we want them to take?
  • Custom Design (No Templates)
    We design around your brand—not force you into a layout meant for someone else.
  • Mobile-First Development
    Your site looks and works perfectly on every device, from phones to desktops.
  • Speed & SEO Optimisation
    We build for Google from the start—clean code, fast load times, proper meta tags.
  • Content Structure & Guidance
    We help you communicate your value clearly and effectively.
  • Quality Assurance & Testing
    We test your site across browsers and devices. No broken layouts, no dodgy buttons.
  • Post-Launch Support
    You don’t just get a “bye and good luck.” We’re here to help after launch.

The Hidden Cost of a Cheap Website

Let’s say you get that R2000 site. Here’s what could go wrong:

  • The site loads slowly and loses visitors.
  • It breaks on mobile.
  • You’re nowhere near page 1 on Google.
  • It looks amateurish—and so does your business.
  • It’s hacked because it was built with outdated plugins.
  • You end up paying someone else (like us) to rebuild it from scratch.

Cheap becomes expensive—fast.

You’re Not Paying for the Page. You’re Paying for the Process.

Think of it like this: you don’t pay a chef for the ingredients. You pay for the recipe, the skill, the years of experience, and the final presentation.

We’re not charging for “just a web page.” We’re delivering a carefully crafted, high-performing brand asset designed to move your business forward.

Our Promise: Quality First

We’re not in this to rip people off. We’re not chasing quick wins. We take pride in our work, and we believe in giving every client real value.

Our sites don’t just look good—they work. And our clients? They don’t come back for fixes. They come back for more.

Final Word

If you’re shopping around for the cheapest option, we’re probably not the right fit. But if you want something that actually helps grow your business, something built with purpose, clarity, and care—then let’s talk.

Your website is your first impression. Make it count!

AboutIngrid Vos