- • Must-haves: tailored content, mobile, fast load, SEO basics, a clear call-to-action, your own domain.
- • Important: easy ongoing edits, real photos, local context, trust elements.
- • Nice-to-have: animations, integrations, blog. Don't let polish distract from the must-haves.
The must-haves
Content tailored to your business
Not placeholder text you fill in. If it reads generic, it converts generic. Specific input → specific, selling copy. See website copywriting that converts.
Mobile-first & fast
Most visitors are on a phone. Pinch-zoom or a 5-second load loses them — and Google. This must be automatic, not your homework.
SEO basics built in
Unique title tags, meta descriptions, clean markup, sitemap. Without these you're invisible — see why sites don't show on Google.
One clear call-to-action
Call, book, request a quote — obvious and repeated. A pretty site with no clear next step doesn't convert.
Your own domain
yourbiz.com, not a builder subdomain. Trust, SEO and the freedom to switch providers later all depend on it.
Important
Effortless ongoing edits
You will change things constantly. If every edit needs a developer or hours of fiddling, the site rots. Plain-language editing is the unlock.
Real photos & local context
Your work, your team, your city — beats stock every time, and powers local SEO.
Trust elements
Reviews, real names/faces, credentials. People buy from businesses that feel real.
Nice-to-have
Polish & extras
Animations, blog, integrations, booking. Good to have — but never at the expense of the must-haves. A flashy site that doesn't convert is a failure with nice transitions.
FAQ
What's the single biggest thing to check?
How do I avoid a generic result?
Do I need a blog or animations?
See an AI site that hits the must-haves
Build yours free and check it against this list — tailored copy, mobile, SEO, clear CTA, your domain.
Start free