The good news is that it’s not programming but coding, which is a lot easier to learn and do. However, learning to code is still a lot like learning to read, write, and speak a whole new language. HTML5 is a markup language and is probably the first thing you should study to get started. Everything you see on the internet is almost certainly using HTML. With that, you’ll be able to make a pretty basic but functional website. But if you want something more impressive and attractive, you’ll need to look into learning CSS, XML, Flash and maybe, JavaScript.

It can be very rewarding, I’ll admit that. But in this scenario, the disadvantage of building your own website from scratch is that learning and using these languages becomes a full-time job. The better news is that some applications will help do a lot or all of the coding for you; however, you risk having a website that breaks down more often or a website that doesn’t look exactly the way you want (think of driving a stick-shift versus an automatic vehicle). Doing it manually promises more control, but having it done for you through an application will be faster and probably clumsier. The great news (here it is!) is that a lot of companies and freelance graphic designers offer precisely those services. If you hire somebody, you will have a gorgeous and powerful website. And there are so many people fighting for your business that you’re very likely to find something affordable.

The only win-win situation is to use a template website that is affordable and visually appealing.