To choose a website developer, check seven things: a real portfolio, a fixed price, clear timelines, who exactly will do the work, post-launch support, mobile + SEO basics, and live communication. If a vendor avoids specifics on even two of these - that's a reason to be cautious.

7 signs of a reliable vendor

  1. A real portfolio that opens. Not screenshots, but live sites. Check how fast they load and how they look on mobile.
  2. A fixed price after the brief. "Approximately" at the start is normal, but before the work there must be a concrete sum and what's included.
  3. Clear timelines. A good vendor names a benchmark (e.g. a landing in 5-7 days) and explains the stages.
  4. It's clear who does the work. One senior, a team, or resold to a freelancer? Better when the person who negotiates also builds.
  5. Post-launch support. A website is not "delivered and gone". Ask what happens with edits and updates.
  6. Mobile version + basic SEO by default. In 2026 this is the norm, not a paid extra.
  7. Normal communication. If it's hard to get a reply even at the messaging stage - it'll be the same during the work.

Questions worth asking

  • Can you show 2-3 similar projects?
  • What exactly is included in the price?
  • Who specifically will do the work and who is in touch?
  • What happens after launch - support, edits?
  • Will the site be fast and responsive on mobile?

The most common client complaint: "I ordered, paid - they did it badly or disappeared." All 7 signs above are about preventing exactly that.

At Studio N - an independent team with no outsourcing, 13+ years of experience, and post-launch support. See examples or get a free audit.