How to Build Your Own Website

Website builders can help you build your store and operate it on an ongoing basis. You don't have to hire a designer or webmaster unless you want to. This means that you can build your own website, accept credit card payments from customers, design coupons, etc..

If this is your first time building a website, look for an site builder which has everything you need in one program. This generally includes a space to host your website, professional design templates that you can use and customize to create your layout, a domain name (www), merchant accounts and an ecommerce platform (if you are building a store), which makes it easy to list and manage several items for sale.

If you simply want a website without a store, Yola.com offers an inexpensive yet professional and easy-to-use solution for beginners. Choose one of their many templates and start customizing it with your own company information. You can even set up your site in blog format.

Yola includes a tool that enables you to add interactive "widgets" to your site, like professional web designers use. It also lets you add advertising spots on your site so you can make additional income from advertisers.

Try Yola.com

Shopify.com is a complete online store builder. Internet entrepreneurs have already opened over 10,000 online stores through them because of their low price and ease of use. See what else you get:

• An iPhone app, so you can use your phone to run your shop.
• Statistics reports, so you can easily learn more about your customers and more effectively help them. 
• A support function right on your site, giving your website visitors more personalized service. 
• Promotion program where you can make coupons and other incentives for clients.

There are multiple store building options you can choose from, and they start at $29 a month. Keep in mind that some hosting services alone cost this much, (not including a merchant account or domain name). Customers get all of this included with Shopify. 

Try Out Shopify's Online Store Builder