In an online world where anyone can build a website in a weekend, it’s easy to ask “Why should I bother hiring a web agency when I can just do it myself?”.

The appeal is obvious. Website builders advertise ease, speed, and affordability. But scratch the surface, and the picture changes. From clunky design limitations to poor SEO and weak performance, these platforms often don’t deliver the lasting results that businesses actually need.

At Martlet Studio, we’ve worked with many businesses who started with a DIY platform and soon realised it was holding them back. If you want a website that truly represents your brand and helps you grow, working with a professional web developer or web agency can make all the difference. Here’s why.

Lot's of bundled and complicated string!

1. Website Builders look simple, but they come with strings attached

On the surface, website builders like Wix or Squarespace seem easy. You pick a template, drag some things around, and publish. The trouble starts when you need your site to do more.

Customising layouts, improving load speed, or making your website rank better on Google can quickly become frustrating or even impossible without expensive add-ons. What seems like a quick win can turn into a slow, clunky site that you outgrow far too soon.

2. A Web Agency builds with purpose from Day One

When you work with a team like Martlet Studio, every decision is made with your business goals in mind.

You get much more than a template. We design and build custom websites that match your brand, engage your audience, and perform brilliantly across all devices. That includes proper SEO setup, thoughtful user journeys, scalable architecture, and performance you can rely on.

Instead of squeezing your brand into a pre-set box, we build a platform around you.

3. A Web Agency works with you, not just for you

When you use a website builder, you’re on your own. If you get stuck, you’re limited to help articles or generic chatbots.

Working with a web agency means you have a team of real people who care about the outcome as much as you do. At Martlet Studio, we’re a small team with a hands-on approach. Every website we build starts with a conversation, not a template.

We learn about your goals, your audience, and what success looks like for your business. That way, your site becomes meaningful as well as functional. You won’t find that kind of partnership in a drag-and-drop builder.

People supporting each other with a united fist bump

4. Agencies bring structure and support that DIY tools can’t match

One of the biggest frustrations people have with website builders is the lack of guidance. You’re left guessing what works, what doesn’t, and what you might be missing.

When you work with a web agency like Martlet Studio, you get a clear and guided process. Our approach is built around three core principles: Modernise, Assist, and Please.

• Modernise - We design with the future in mind, using the latest technology so your site stays relevant and performs well over time.
• Assist - You’re not left to figure things out alone. We support you throughout the project and offer help well after launch.
• Please - Every project is tailored to your needs, with a focus on quality, not shortcuts.

This structure means fewer surprises, clearer communication, and better results.All things you simply don’t get with DIY platforms.

5. Good Design isn’t just for looks. It gets results

A well-designed website doesn’t just look professional. It builds trust, improves engagement, and helps convert visitors into customers. At Martlet Studio, we’ve helped clients increase their visibility online and improve their user experience. We’ve seen firsthand how a thoughtful, high-performing website can elevate a business and open new doors.

Templates are built to be generic. We build with your story, your customers, and your future in mind.

6. Website Builders Often Cost More in the Long Run

We actually briefly touched upon this in our first point. Website builders might seem cheap at first but many business owners are surprised by the hidden fees and constant upsells. Want to remove ads, connect a custom domain, or improve performance? That’s another monthly cost. And if your site doesn’t bring in the traffic or leads you expected, you’re left wondering whether you need to start again from scratch.

Investing in a new website through a web agency gives you the right foundation from the start, avoiding costly rebuilds later on.

Woman shrugs as she doesn't know when she should hire a Web Agency!

7. When should you hire a Web Agency?

Here are a few signs you’re ready to work with a team like Martlet Studio:

• You’re launching a business and want to make a strong first impression
• Your current site looks outdated or doesn’t reflect your brand
• You need features or functionality that go beyond a standard builder
• You want to rank better on search engines
• You’re ready to scale and need a website that can grow with you

If that sounds familiar, it might be time to bring in the experts. A website should work hard for your business. It should reflect your brand, bring in new customers, and grow with you over time.

At Martlet Studio, we’re here to help you make that happen. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to redesign, we build websites that are fast, functional, and genuinely you. Why not get in touch with us today and see what we can do for you?