Is a freelancer more bespoke than Build My Trade Site?
Both can be bespoke. The difference is risk: we build your preview before payment and include six maintenance updates per year in one annual price.
Build My Trade Site vs hiring a freelancer
Quick verdict: Freelancers can produce good work, but quotes, timelines, and scope vary widely — often with large upfront deposits. We show a finished Website Preview first; you pay only after Site Acceptance.
A local freelancer may fit a one-off project, but trades often need predictable maintenance, enquiry handling, and someone who understands local service search. Our model combines operator-led build with an annual plan that covers upkeep.
| Feature | Build My Trade Site | Freelancer / local web designer |
|---|---|---|
| Typical upfront cost | £495/year after Site Acceptance (no deposit) | Often £500–£3,000+ upfront, plus hosting and future change fees |
| Preview before payment | Yes — private Website Preview before any payment | Rarely — deposits are common before delivery |
| Built for UK trades | Yes — tailored to local service and trade businesses | Depends on the freelancer's trade experience |
| Enquiry handling | Enquiry forwarding included in Annual Website Plan | Usually basic contact forms — extras cost more |
| Ongoing maintenance | 6 maintenance updates per year plus technical upkeep | Often billed hourly for updates after launch |
| You own the website | Yes — your domain, your business presence | Yes, if you receive source files and hosting access |
Common questions
What if the freelancer disappears after launch?
That is a real risk with one-off hires. Build My Trade Site is an ongoing Annual Website Plan with technical maintenance and operator support.
Do I still own my domain with Build My Trade Site?
Yes. You can use a client-owned domain or a platform subdomain we provide.
How fast is delivery compared to a freelancer?
Most briefs reach a Website Preview within a few business days. Freelancer timelines vary by workload and scope negotiations.