If don't have a website (and I seriously hope that is not the case) and you are considering getting one, here's a little "head's up" for your checklist.

Many web design companies do not include hosting in their package. Our company works like that. If someone asks me: "How much is a website?" I'll usually answer by asking them to be more specific. (Because its a loaded question that has no simple price attached to it.) After a discussion about features and functionality I can give them an estimate. I never include hosting in that price. There's a number of reasons for this.

1. You may have already bought your hosting. Lots of people have a general idea of how to get their website started. Or they have a basic template up somewhere and want to start over.
2. You may want to manage your own hosting. If your website isn't very big, you won't need a lot of hosting. Companies will charge a set-up or handling fee. Its usually a small fee (ours is usually 5-10 dollars), but in this economy it’s a good idea to cut corners where you can.
3. You might need more space. Most people starting their first website have very basic needs: calendars, contact forms, a blog, 5-6 static pages… they don't need a server. But occasionally you do. When that happens, you might need to talk directly to a company that specializes in hosting.

Things to watch out for when you are considering hosting:

• Unless you are considering a huge website (option 3 above) you probably don't need a ton of space or features. (And if you ever do, most companies will let you upgrade.) If you have a mostly static site with some basic features you shouldn't be paying over $200 a year (probably even $100).
• Be wary of monthly fees that web design companies give you. If they say "hosting included" then charge a monthly "upkeep" fee this means they are probably making a ton of money off you every month, possibly for years. You can pay monthly for hosting from hosting companies, but it's usually cheaper and smarter to pay for a year upfront.
• Cheap hosting that covers most peoples' needs will run less than $10 a month and usually paid a year or more in advance.

I'm a fan of GoDaddy and Eleven2. Do you have a hosting company you recommend?