How to create a free website for your business

What a free website usually includes

Free plans from website builders typically give you hosting, a secure HTTPS address on the builder's domain, ready-made templates and a visual editor. In exchange, they usually show the builder's branding and limit the number of pages or features.

Step 1: Pick a builder made for your type of work

A builder for online shops is a poor fit if you sell your time and expertise. If you are a freelancer, consultant or creative, look for portfolio sections, a services list, a contact or inquiry form and, if you work by appointment, online booking.

Step 2: Write the content before you design

Design is easier once you know what you want to say. Prepare these basics first:

• A one-line headline: what you do and for whom.
• Three to six services or areas of work, each with a short description.
• Your best examples of work, with a sentence or two about each.
• A short, human about section.
• How clients should contact or book you.

Step 3: Choose a theme and add your sections

Start from a theme close to the mood you want, then replace the example content with yours. Keep fonts and colours consistent, use real photos where possible and make the main call to action easy to find.

Step 4: Publish, test and share

Publish the page and open it on your phone and on a computer. Send the link to a friend and ask them to find out what you do and how to contact you in under ten seconds. If they hesitate, simplify. Then share the link everywhere clients find you.

When it makes sense to upgrade

A free website is a good start. Upgrading becomes worthwhile when you want your own domain name, want to remove the builder's branding, need more design freedom, or want features like detailed analytics and online bookings. Upgrade when the website starts bringing in clients, not before.

Your free website with NovaFront

NovaFront's Free plan includes one published page with NovaFront branding and basic analytics, with no credit card required. Pro ($9/month) adds a custom domain, premium themes and advanced analytics. Creator ($15/month) adds services, online bookings and advanced lead tools.