What should I know about the website design process?

PMW

What are my options for website design?

All design options include the same website system, which gives you all the power of HERO Websites.  Design options control the look, feel, and organization of your website. 

How can I backup my current website before my new website is created?

You can backup your current website with a tool like HTTrack, available from https://www.httrack.com.

If you selected a Rapid Start design, it's absolutely essential that you back up your current website, as none of your settings or content will be moved over to your new site. For other design options, it is still important to backup your current website so that you have a full copy of your website.  Sometimes, when your current host discovers they are losing your business, they may turn your website off.  In these cases, we need this backup to work from.

Can you convert my existing website to the HERO Website system?

Yes, the conversion option covers this. Converting to the HERO Website system gives you all the benefits of full control of your website and direct integration with listings and portals.

Only current, professional designs are eligible for conversion.  If your website was not created by a professional designer, or if it's more than two years old (a typical generation in website structure and styles), do not plan to convert it; instead, choose a custom design option.

What are my options for email service?

The HERO Website system includes four built-in options for email:

  • The HERO Mail system, which includes full email control and management, access from any email client, built-in webmail, and the latest spam and virus protection.
  • Your own email server.  Email sent to your domain will be filtered for spam and viruses and piped straight through to the server you designate by IP address.
  • Google email.  Email sent to your domain is sent directly to your Google Workspace account.
  • Microsoft email. Email sent to your domain is sent directly to your Microsoft 365 account.

How long will it take for my new website to be created?

Timeframes vary by the type of design selected.  Rapid Start and Quick Custom options are fastest, while a Professional Custom takes a little longer (but it's worth it!).  

Where do I start?

After ordering your new website design, the next step is to complete the website creation form, which is required for each design option except Rapid Start.  This will be sent to you in an email once you place the order.

Will I be able to review and approve the website before it goes live?

Absolutely.  There are two different review stages for all but the Rapid Start design option.  First, you'll review and approve the design based on a design preview, then later you'll review and approve the completed site and sign off on it before we go live.

How do I tell the designer what I want them to do?

You don't. You tell the designer what you need and want. You bring a trusted professional designer into the process because they know how to convert what you need and what you want into a professional design that will serve you well.

Have you ever had an owner that wants to tell you how to manage rentals?  You may wonder why they didn't just do it themselves.  The value proposition that a professional property manager brings is that they know how to best turn an owner's needs and wants (return on investment, protection of investment, etc.) into a headache-free reality.  Realize that any time you engage a professional to serve you, the first decision is to trust them, then it will be easy to give up control.  Don't hand the future of your business over to a company you cannot trust, but once you do, work with that company to help them understand your wants and needs, rather than spending your time instructing them how to do it.  You'll be glad you did.  We'll be able to serve you best when we partner together and each use our strengths to accomplish your goals.

What is the Go Live process?

Once your website is fully approved, it goes through the sign off and go live processes.  The go live connects your domain, activates your email, and publishes your site to the web.  Once your website is live you have full access to make all the changes you wish.

What do I need to do after my new website is live?

You'll receive an email with instructions, but basically you need to fill out some information in your website admin panel to setup basic info and set search engine parameters.  It takes less than two minutes, but is an essential part in optimizing your website for search engines.

How do I get the best placement in Google (SEO)?

HERO Websites are all designed for ideal Search Engine Optimization, and consistently rank at the top of Google.  However, there are a few things you can do:

  • Set up and connect your Google Analytics account to track and analyze the way Google views and places your site.
  • Enter the basic information required on the intro view of your website admin panel.
  • Periodically check the SEO Tools in your website admin panel.  This will provide you with a simple view of items where you can improve, as well as a comparison of your website's content to the searches that Google users are currently performing.

Can I get help with my website?

Absolutely! Support from our legendary support team is available for all HERO Website packages.  We'll be with you every step of the way as you continuously grow and refine your website to meet all of your business goals.

Can you make changes to my website for me after it's live?

Definitely. Our project service option allows you to have us do your future edits and improvements for you, for a seriously reduced member rate.