Small business website guides
Plain-English answers to the questions owners ask us most: what a website should cost, whether to use a builder, an AI tool or a template, and how to get found on Google and in AI search.
No jargon and no sales pressure. If a builder or another option fits you better, the guides say so.
Choosing how to get a website
Builders, templates, AI tools and what each really costs.
How much does a website cost in 2026?
Builders, templates, freelancers and agencies compared, with 3-year totals and the hidden fees.
AI website builders vs. a website you own
One-click AI builders compared step by step, from the first prompt to cancelling.
Website builder or template: how to choose
Cost, speed, ownership and effort compared, and when each one fits.
A Wix and Squarespace alternative you own
Stop renting your website: builders and one-time templates side by side.
A website with no monthly platform fees
What is paid once, what hosting and a domain cost, and how to launch a site you own.
Planning your website
What to put on it, and whether you need one at all.
What pages does a small business website need?
Every page from the home page to a privacy policy, and when one page is enough.
Do I need a website if I have a Facebook page?
Why your own site still matters, and how the two work best together.
Getting found
Show up on Google Maps, in reviews and in AI answers.
How to get your business on Google Maps
Set up and verify a free Google Business Profile, step by step.
How to get more Google reviews
When to ask, how to make it easy, how to reply, and what never to do.
How to show up in ChatGPT and AI search
Help AI assistants understand and recommend your business.
Free tools
Check your current site in about a minute. No sign-up.
Website speed test
Google's own PageSpeed test, explained in plain English.
AI-ready check
Can ChatGPT and Google's AI find and understand your business? Get a grade and a fix list.
See your website made over
Your business on a new design, next to your current site's real scores.
Rather skip the reading?
Tell us your business name and trade, and we will send a free mockup of your new site. No card, no contract.
- Text or call (904) 413-1777
- Email info@shopsitetemplates.com
- 7 days a week, 8 AM to 6 PM Eastern
- Want to do it yourself? Templates from $29