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1) Review both your long-term and short-term objectives with your webdesigner or webmaster.
Deciding on your site's reach is something that should be considered. If you have a small home cleaning service or a restaurant in AnyTown, Connecticut - having an internet reach that attracts a majority of it's inquiries from AnyTown, California simply doesn't make sense. Locality and relevance are attainable and desireable in all site builds. Both are essential when you are concerned with Search Engine issues or using the internet as an integral part of your marketing and advertising.
2) Start at a level that you are comfortable with. Start simple. Start within budget.
Adding to a site (in the future) is not only a natural progression, it is an inherently important one. Sites that grow naturally tend to attract repeat and more loyal visitors. Trying to include every possible situation with an initial build can limit your ability to see what may or may not be working for you in the future. Putting "everything" into your initial site-build will increase the costs. Unfortunately, there's no real way to make sure that what you are including is really beneficial.
3) Organic growth makes sense - especially when it comes to budgeting.
It simply makes sense to take your site development a step-at-a-time. By planning your site growth by needs, as well as budget, you can accomplish a variety of objectives. Always keep in mind... you may not need a the expensive option(s) to start.
"What is your website going to cost?" is a legitimate and important question. It is a question you should discuss with your designer from the very start. When doing so, however, be sure to review not only your short-term objectives, but review your long-term expectations.
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