Customer only wants website, as already have a host . . .

But I was trying to wrestle a monthly retainer to make it worth it

[atombomb]

Hi All,
I'm doing a site for a client.

I prefer to host sites and offer a complete 'support' package which will include SEO services.

They have a 0 rating in SE's at the moment.

Their current host is digging their heels in a bit and being awkward about moving the hosting. They manage the hardware side of things for them and I think they want to keep the 'whole show', so to speak.

I'm in the dilemma as to whether to do the site and upload to current host, and leave it at that, which is not my preference.

I would rather give support during the period as I don't like "dump and go" strategies and it won't do business any good if there's any problems. I also won't offer *free* support.

I suppose I could always offer to support the site on a monthly retainer for minor changes, including SEO services - or just charge by the hour if they ring (messy?)

What do you think? Others of you must have had a similar dilemma trying to wrest hosting from clients that already have hosting?

Many thanks!
AB

[goodroi]

If you can make enough money to make you happy by just building the site and walking away, then go for it. My experience is that most costs involved with doing SEO for a site are start-up and initial research costs. I find these projects are only profitable if there is a monthly retainer. I refuse most job requests because the potential customer is going to be too much trouble for too little money.

[raywood]

I've done it both ways. Total package including hosting and maintenance, or just a website design. I charge a higher price for straight website development without the hosting package recurring fee. I load it up on my server for review, get customer approval, and then it goes to their host server.

I don't usually have too many problems, but I anticipate finger pointing and complaints by spelling out the terms up front. What you see is what you get. After it goes on your server, changes, updates, maintenance is for a fee. I have no responsibility for the server, its performance, or anything. Then it becomes "Call me if you need help, I'll do what you need and send you a bill."