Having a website built as a freelancer: what do you really need?

As a freelancer, you do not automatically need ten pages, a complex calculator or a large CMS. Start with one question: what should a potential client do after visiting your site? That may be an enquiry, phone call, booking or portfolio request.

What should your website do?

A useful first version should make clear:

• what you offer;
• who you work with;
• where or how you work;
• why someone should trust you;
• what the visitor can do next.

A website cannot replace a clear offer. If you explain five services to five audiences at once, a small site quickly becomes unclear. Choose the priority for your business first.

Which pages do you need?

A suitable starting point may include:

• a homepage with clear positioning;
• one or more service pages;
• an about page or proof of experience;
• a contact page or direct contact block;
• privacy and legal information where relevant.

This is not a universal required package. A photographer needs different information from a consultant, local tradesperson or online specialist. One page may be enough for one service and one audience. Separate URLs become useful when services, audiences or questions are genuinely different.

One page or several?

Choose one page when the offer is simple and visitors follow one route. Choose several pages when you sell different services, serve different audiences or need separate topics to be found and shared.

More pages are not automatically better. Each page needs a job and needs to stay current. One strong page is more useful than an empty service page with three general sentences.

What should you prepare?

Collect:

• your services and priorities;
• questions clients ask before enquiring;
• your service area and contact details;
• examples, results or reviews you have permission to publish;
• photographs and a logo;
• functions that are genuinely needed, such as booking or a form.

Use the website project checklist to list the material you already have. You do not need to choose the technology first. Describe what visitors or staff need to do.

Build it yourself or outsource?

Building it yourself may fit when your offer is simple, you have time and you want to manage the site. A builder or WordPress can be a practical start. Still account for content, mobile checks, backups, updates, forms and account ownership.

Outsourcing makes sense when you need a clear structure, struggle to write, want a distinctive design or need integrations. Ask about scope, handover, management and what happens after launch, not only about the visual design.

Start small, but not vague

A limited first version can be sensible. Leave out parts without a clear role and add what real client questions show you need. Do not cut the explanation of your offer, the contact route, mobile quality or ownership of your domain and data.

Read what a website costs in the Netherlands. Describe your project and I will explain the routes OROS can take.

FAQ

How many pages does a freelancer need?

It depends on your offer and audience. One strong page may be enough for one simple service. Several services or audiences often need separate pages.

Can I start with a website builder?

Yes, if you understand its limits and ongoing management. Check ownership, export options, forms, speed and recurring costs.

Which functions do I really need?

Start with the action a visitor should take. A form, booking system, payment or calculator only helps when it fits your workflow.

When is a web designer worth the investment?

When structure, content, design, technology or time are holding you back and the website supports your sales process. Ask for a clear scope and ownership and management terms.

Want to define your first version? Describe your project in the enquiry form.

About the author

Daniel Orosz

Web developer & founder

Daniel builds websites and digital systems from Kerkrade and has worked with web technology since 2009. Since 2018 he has worked for dental practices. He explains technical choices in plain language.

More about Daniel →