Agency, freelancer, or AI builder?
Short answer: If you need a simple site and have time to do it yourself, a builder like Wix, Squarespace, Framer, or Lovable is cheapest to start, but you pay every month and you're tied to that platform. An agency gives you a team at agency prices. A solo developer like me sits in between: a fixed quote, code you own, and you always talk to the person doing the work.
| Topic | DIY / AI builder (Wix, Squarespace, Framer, Lovable) | Agency | Solo developer (lelham.dev) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Wix $17.77–159.77/mo; Squarespace $19–99/mo; Framer $0, $10, or $30/mo (all billed annually); Lovable Pro $25/mo | Custom apps are quoted by the agency. | Landing page from $750; sites from $1,500; portals from $4,000; church apps from $5,000; iPhone apps from $8,000 |
| Speed | As fast as you can build it yourself | Weeks to months, with handoffs between people | Fixed timeline agreed on our first call |
| Ownership | Your site lives on their platform, and you rent it monthly | Depends on the contract | You own the code and the accounts |
| Who you talk to | Help docs, support tickets, or an AI chatbot | An account manager | Steven, the person building it |
| Ongoing | Subscription never ends | Retainer | Optional care plan: $150/mo for sites, $350/mo for apps. Extra work $75/hr. |
Builder prices come from each company's public pricing page as checked in our 2026 pricing study (wix.com/plans, squarespace.com/pricing, framer.com/pricing, and Lovable's own pricing guide). Prices change, so check current rates.
When a builder is the right call
For a simple brochure site on a small budget, when you're happy to update it yourself, a builder is a fine choice, and I'll tell you that on our call.
When to hire a developer
Hire a developer when you need bookings, logins, payments, a member app, or anything the templates can't do, or when you want to own what you paid for.
FAQ
How much does a custom website cost with you?
From $1,500 for up to 5 pages, or from $750 for a landing page.
How do payments work?
Payment terms: sites are 50% upfront and 50% at launch; apps are 40/30/30 at start, beta and launch.
Is there a discount?
Founding-client offer: 20% off for my first 3 clients in exchange for a testimonial and case study.
Where are you based?
Based in California, USA, working with clients worldwide.
Will I be talking to an AI?
No. You talk to me.