5 Things Website Design Companies in Maryland Don’t Want You to Know
- Jul 25
- 4 min read
Thinking about getting a new website? Local web design companies might promise sleek designs and expert support, but there’s often more to the story. Some important details don’t reach the sales pitch, and missing them could cost you. Whether you’re starting fresh or switching vendors, here are five things Maryland web design companies don’t want you to know.
In Maryland, Web Design Companies Don't Tell You That:
1. SEO Is Rarely Included in Standard Website Packages
You’ve probably heard that SEO is essential for getting found online, but what many Maryland web design companies don’t mention is that it’s rarely included in standard website packages. Your site might look great, but without proper SEO, it may not appear in search results. SEO involves more than design. It includes keyword research, site structure optimization, meta descriptions, and backlink strategies.
To avoid surprises, always ask if SEO is part of the package. If not, find out if it’s offered as an add-on or if you’ll need a specialist. Knowing this upfront can save you time, money, and missed opportunities after launch.
What you should do: When budgeting for your website, factor in the cost of SEO. Building a website without it is like planting a garden and forgetting to water it— it won’t thrive.
2. Not All Website Packages Require Maintenance Fees
Once your site goes live, many Maryland web design companies will recommend ongoing maintenance contracts for updates, security, and minor edits. While useful, these aren’t always essential, and the costs can pile up.
Some agencies bundle them into their packages, quietly increasing your annual bill. If your site runs on a user-friendly platform like WordPress or Wix and you're comfortable managing basic tasks, a pricey maintenance plan might not be necessary. Be sure to evaluate what your business needs before signing on.
What you should ask:
Can I handle updates myself?
Are there maintenance plan options, or is it mandatory?
What happens if I decide to cancel the maintenance contract down the road?
By getting clear answers upfront, you can avoid feeling locked into services you don’t need.
3. A Pretty Website Isn’t Always An Effective One
Eye-catching designs are great, but they don’t always deliver results. Some Maryland web design companies focus too much on aesthetics, using templates that prioritize looks over functionality and user experience. The result? Beautiful websites that don’t convert. A truly effective site balances form and function, should load fast, be easy to navigate, and guide visitors toward clear actions like booking a service or making a purchase.
Watch out for: Beware of agencies whose primary focus is offering “beautiful designs” without discussing how they’ll track performance or enhance user engagement. A pretty design isn’t enough if your visitors leave without taking action.
4. An Expensive Website Isn’t Always the Best Website
A high price tag doesn’t always mean better quality. Some Maryland web design companies charge more due to their reputation, overhead, or proprietary tools—without necessarily delivering better results. In contrast, smaller firms or freelancers often provide the same (or better) quality at a lower cost, with more personalized service. Still, affordability shouldn’t mean cutting corners. When comparing quotes, focus on overall value: What’s included? Is the site scalable? And are there hidden fees that don’t add real benefit?
How to get your money's worth:
Request itemized invoices to see what you’re paying for.
Compare packages from at least three companies to understand industry pricing.
Request examples of past work to evaluate their design and functionality expertise.
5. You Don’t Always Own Your Website
Ownership might seem like a given, but it’s not always clear-cut. Some Maryland web design companies retain rights to your website’s design, code, or even content, meaning if you switch providers, you could lose access or face costly transfer fees. To protect yourself, review contracts closely and ensure they clearly state what you own. Ideally, you should retain full rights to your domain, design, content, and backend access.
Your domain name
The website’s design and code
Any original content, like text and images
A smart move for you: Register your domain name yourself through a trusted registrar and keep all login details in your possession. This ensures you remain in control, no matter what happens with your web design agency.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Maryland web design company isn’t just about good looks or low prices. It's about creating a site that drives results and supports your business goals. When you know what to watch for, you can avoid hidden costs, weak strategies, and wasted investments. The more informed you are, the better positioned you’ll be to build a website that truly performs.
Bonus: We've created a guide to finding the right website design company. Don't miss it, read the full story here:
Ready to build a site that works for your business? Talk to one of our web design experts today and get the clarity you need before making your next move.
Comments