Choosing a web design agency is a bit like hiring a contractor for your house. Everyone shows you nice pictures, but what you really want to know is whether the job will be done on time, on budget and in a way that actually works for you. If you run a business in Montreal, you have dozens of options, from freelancers to large agencies. These nine questions will help you separate the right partner from the rest.
1. Can I see websites you built for businesses like mine?
A portfolio tells you more than any sales pitch. Look for real, live websites, not just mockups. Open them on your phone, check how fast they load and see whether you could easily find a phone number or a contact form. If the agency has built sites for businesses similar to yours, even better.
2. What is included in the price?
Two quotes can look very different simply because they include different things. Ask how many pages are included, whether copywriting is part of the project, how many design revisions you get, and whether basic SEO, analytics setup and training are included. A clear scope protects both sides.
3. Will I be able to update the website myself?
You should not need a developer every time you change a price or add a photo. Ask which platform will be used. WordPress, for example, lets you edit text, images and blog posts yourself after a short training session.
4. How do you handle SEO?
A beautiful website that nobody finds is an expensive brochure. A good agency builds SEO into the project: clean page structure, fast loading, optimized titles and descriptions, and a setup for Google Search Console and your Google Business Profile.
5. Do you build bilingual websites?
In Quebec, French is not optional for most businesses, and many Montreal companies also serve English-speaking clients. Ask how the agency handles French and English versions, translations and SEO in both languages.
6. What does the process look like?
Ask for the main steps and a realistic timeline: discovery, structure, design, development, review and launch. Agencies that explain their process clearly usually run projects more smoothly.
7. Who owns the website and the domain?
You should own your domain name, your content and your website files. Make sure the domain is registered in your name and that you receive all access codes at the end of the project.
8. What happens after launch?
Websites need updates, backups and security monitoring. Ask whether the agency offers maintenance and support, and what it costs if something breaks six months later.
9. How will we measure results?
The goal of a business website is not just to look good. It is to generate calls, quote requests, bookings or sales. A good agency will help you set up tracking so you know where your clients come from.
Red flags to watch for
- A price that seems far too low with no clear scope
- No live examples of previous work
- Promises of guaranteed first-page rankings on Google
- Vague answers about who owns the website
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to build a business website?
A typical brochure website takes two to four weeks once content is ready. Online stores and larger projects usually take four to eight weeks.
Should I hire a freelancer or an agency?
Freelancers can be great for small projects. An agency is usually better when you need design, development, SEO and content handled together, with backup if someone is unavailable.
Looking for a web design agency in Montreal?
Loubane designs fast, SEO-ready websites for small businesses in Montreal and across Canada. Tell us about your project and we will send you a clear, detailed quote.
Prefer to talk? Call or WhatsApp 438-933-7601 or email loubane5@yahoo.ca.
