Here is a checklist to help you make an informed decision before you hire a financial website design firm:

• You received a detailed written estimate for the project before you begin working together.
• You have NO ongoing monthly fees other than your “hosting” fee (approx. $10-25/month depending on your level of service). A deposit is paid in the beginning and your final payment is given after your have approved your website to GO LIVE.
• The website design firm has a functioning website and operate in the USA or Canada.
• Upon request, your designer provides examples of previous work done on similar financial advisor websites.
• The control of your website is in your hands. Your internet hosting service is in your ownership and name.
• You are easily able to manage your website, and tutorials are provided, such that you can edit/change pages on your website quickly. Custom page layouts may be more difficult for you to edit — requiring a bit more learning for you on the video tutorials (such as the HOME page).
• Your financial website is built on the most current technology available, NOT on a “free” template/theme — and with ‘open source’ software (such as WordPress) instead of ‘proprietary’ software owned by the web design firm.
• Your website includes a blog (allowing you to post articles and news on your website easily).
• You will work directly with one person responsible for your website design from ‘start to finish’ (not call center staff).
• Your website hosting is owned by you, in your name/ownership, and with a reputable hosting company with technical support in the USA/Canada which provides 24/7 telephone support.