Comparing price is easy; comparing scope is not. An $800 theme install and an $8,000 custom interface should not sit in the same column. This article is how to read the invoice line by line.
Three layers
Design and front end, integrations (forms, CRM, payments, languages), then content and SEO. The cheapest bid usually pushes layer three back to you. Copy arrives late and the site launches empty.
Build cost versus living cost
Hosting, SSL, plugin licences, backups, small edits. Two years of that can exceed the build. Studios that say so up front do not surprise you later.
Package or custom?
Choosing from demos is faster. Brands with a distinct offer need their own grid and components. We split both paths as packages and custom quotes. A short need-list is enough to price within 24–48 hours.
