Choosing a website developer can feel overwhelming, especially when most advice focuses on the same tired checklist of credentials and portfolio reviews. But there are smarter, less obvious strategies that can help you find the right developer for your project. This guide shares seven underrated tips that often get overlooked but can make all the difference in finding someone who truly fits your needs and budget.
While many people gravitate toward big-name agencies or freelance marketplaces, boutique development shops often offer a better balance of quality, attention, and value. Wicked Spider is one such agency that specializes in custom web development with a personal touch. Smaller agencies like this tend to have more flexibility in their approach and can often move faster than larger firms bogged down by bureaucracy. You get experienced developers who actually care about your project, not just another ticket in a queue. If you want quality work without the corporate overhead, exploring boutique options can be a smart move.
A developer who gives you a price within minutes of hearing your idea is probably not the right fit. Good developers ask detailed questions about your goals, target audience, technical requirements, and timeline before they even discuss cost. This shows they’re thinking critically about your project rather than just trying to close a deal quickly. Pay attention to how curious they are about your business and what problems you’re trying to solve. The best developers treat the discovery phase as seriously as the actual build.
The way a developer communicates before you hire them is exactly how they’ll communicate during your project. If they take three days to respond to your initial inquiry, expect the same delays once work begins. Notice whether they explain technical concepts in plain language or hide behind jargon. Do they set clear expectations about timelines and availability? These early interactions are a preview of the working relationship. Trust your gut if something feels off, because communication issues only get worse under pressure.
Most people focus entirely on the build phase and forget to ask what happens after the site goes live. Websites need updates, bug fixes, and occasional troubleshooting, especially in the first few months. Developers who include or clearly outline post-launch support are showing they stand behind their work. Ask specifically about response times, how they handle urgent issues, and what kind of ongoing maintenance they recommend. A developer who disappears after launch can leave you stranded with a site you can’t manage or fix on your own.
During your initial conversations, present a realistic challenge your website might face and see how they respond. For example, ask what they’d do if your site needed to handle a sudden traffic spike or integrate with a specific tool you use. Strong developers will think through the problem out loud, ask clarifying questions, and offer multiple solutions with pros and cons. Weak developers will give vague reassurances or defer the question entirely. This simple test reveals how they think under pressure and whether they have the depth of knowledge your project requires.
A polished portfolio is important, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Dig deeper by asking for references from past clients, especially those with projects similar to yours. When you contact references, ask specific questions about missed deadlines, budget overruns, and how the developer handled problems. Also check if the developer’s own website is well-maintained and functional. If their personal site is outdated or broken, that’s a warning sign about how they prioritize quality and maintenance. Small details like these reveal habits that a portfolio alone won’t show.
Great developers don’t just build your site and hand over the keys. They take time to teach you how things work, explain your options in plain terms, and empower you to make informed decisions. If a developer seems annoyed by your questions or unwilling to explain their recommendations, that’s a bad sign. You want someone who sees themselves as a partner in your success, not just a hired hand. The best working relationships happen when developers respect your input and help you understand enough to be an active participant in the process.
Choosing the right website developer goes far beyond checking portfolios and comparing prices. By paying attention to these often-overlooked factors, you can find someone who not only builds a great site but also makes the process smoother and more collaborative. Take your time, ask thoughtful questions, and trust your instincts. The right developer is out there, and these tips will help you recognize them when you find them.
