Start with the job your website must do
List the services or products to explain and the actions visitors should take. An informational site and a store with complex delivery rules require different work.
Compare the same scope
Ask whether design, copy, images, mobile checks, integrations and migration are included. Record page count and revision rounds. A lower quote may cover a smaller project.
Separate one-time and ongoing costs
Domain renewal, hosting, paid plugins, maintenance and AI usage may be recurring expenses. Request a clear breakdown.
Check ownership and handover
Keep the domain in your business account. Agree on administrator access, relevant source files and editing guidance.
A useful next step
Prepare required pages, features, existing content and a preferred launch date. That gives an agency the information needed to quote responsibly.