What Makes a Good Website for a Local Business?

If you're a local business owner in Vancouver—whether you're running a restaurant, a construction company, a plumbing business, or a real estate agency—you probably understand that having a website is important. But did you know there's a big difference between a website that simply exists and a website that brings you new customers?

1. A Clear Message About What You Do

When someone visits your website, they need to immediately understand what services or products you offer. If you're a plumber, your homepage should instantly say something like "Emergency Plumbing Services in Vancouver." If you run a local café, it might say "Best Coffee & Breakfast in Kitsilano."

Clear messaging builds trust and lets customers quickly decide if you're right for their needs.

2. Designed for Mobile Phones First

Did you know that over 60% of people looking for local businesses in Vancouver do so on their smartphones? If your website is slow, hard to navigate, or difficult to read on a phone, your customers will leave immediately.

A mobile-friendly website loads fast, has large buttons, and makes it very easy for visitors to call or book services.

3. Easy to Find on Google (Local SEO)

When people search Google for "best restaurant in downtown Vancouver," or "Vancouver realtor," they usually click on one of the top results. If your website isn't properly set up, your business won't be there.

Good local business websites clearly mention Vancouver and the neighbourhoods you serve. They also have separate pages for each service or product you offer. This helps Google easily find you and show your business to more local customers.

If you want to learn more about this topic, check out our post on Why Most Vancouver Small Business Websites Are Invisible on Google.

4. Real Reviews and Testimonials

Imagine you're choosing a restaurant to visit for dinner. Would you trust one with no reviews or ratings? Probably not. Similarly, visitors trust your website more when they see positive reviews and testimonials from happy customers.

Including reviews or pictures of completed projects, like home renovations for contractors or listings for realtors, gives potential customers confidence in choosing you over competitors.

5. Looks Professional and Trustworthy

Your website should reflect your professionalism. It doesn't have to be flashy, but it does need to look clean, modern, and trustworthy. Poor design makes people question the quality of your services or products.

Common web design mistakes include confusing layouts, slow loading speeds, and outdated visuals. Learn more about these pitfalls in our post on Web Design Mistakes That Kill Trust with Vancouver Customers.

6. Speed and Security Matter

Think of your website like your store's front door. If it doesn't open quickly and easily, customers leave. Similarly, if your website is slow or doesn't load properly, visitors won't wait around.

In addition, your website needs to feel safe. A secure site ensures customers can trust you with their contact details or booking requests.

7. Regular Updates and Helpful Content

Google loves websites that provide fresh content. Regularly adding useful information or updates not only helps your website rank higher but keeps visitors engaged and coming back.

For example, a real estate agent might regularly add local market updates or buying tips. A restaurant owner might share seasonal menus or events.

Digitari Solutions: We Handle Everything So You Don't Have To

At Digitari Solutions, we understand you're busy running your business. You're not a web designer or SEO expert—and you shouldn't have to be.

That's why our full-service packages include:

• Professional, easy-to-navigate website design tailored to your Vancouver business.

• Complete local SEO optimization so your customers can easily find you on Google.

• Fast, secure, and fully mobile-friendly websites.

• Regular updates and helpful content, all done for you, with zero hassle.

We're not just web designers or developers—we're your digital growth partners, helping you attract more customers without the tech headaches.

Ready for a website that actually brings customers through your door?
Contact Digitari Solutions, and let's get your business noticed online.