One of the great things about WordPress is that there are so many options when it comes to theme selection. If you’re just getting started with WordPress I would recommend selecting a free theme as there are 100′s of themes to choose from. All themes have different options as far as menu locations, logo/header size, background, # of sidebars, columns and the list goes on. Once you’re familiar with how themes work and you get an idea for what you want your website to look like then you can start browsing at professional themes and you will be able to make an informed decision.
Professional WordPress themes will still use the same WordPress dashboard but will have additional options as far as pre-built image sliders, image galleries, contact forms, custom fields, built in fonts, shortcodes etc… Content can easily be transferred from one theme to another in WordPress which is a HUGE bonus. The majority of the work involved in moving to a new theme is playing with the images to ensure they properly fit into the new format. Professional themes generally range in price from $10 – $100.
Below is an example from one of my recent clients. In just a few hours we moved their website from a free WordPress theme to a Professional theme. The content is still the same but the overall presentation and navigation in the professional theme made a huge difference.
⇒ A domain will cost about $10 per year.
⇒ Hosting your website will cost about $8 per month.
⇒ WordPress is FREE.
⇒ Pre-Built WordPress Themes range from $0 – $100.
⇒ There are many so called ‘package deals’ out there. Do your research!
⇒ And when you’re ready……hire locally.