Think of Me as Your Digital Handyman
You know how some homeowners try to DIY everything, some call the most expensive contractor they can find, and the smart ones have that one reliable guy who does good work at fair prices? Someone who shows up when they say they will, explains what they're doing, and doesn't try to upsell you on stuff you don't need?
That's what we want to be for your digital presence.
You run a physical business. You're great at your trade. But the digital side of things—the website, the Google listing, understanding what actually matters online—that's probably not why you got into this work. And frankly, it shouldn't have to be.
Our Philosophy
Our Background
We've spent 10+ years building software at venture-backed startups in Seattle and San Francisco. We've seen how tech companies actually build things—and more importantly, we've seen how much of what gets sold to small businesses is overpriced, overcomplicated, or outright unnecessary.
We started Runchey Websites because we kept having the same conversation with contractor friends and family: "I'm paying $400/month for my website and I have no idea what they're actually doing." Or: "Some SEO company called and said I need to pay them or I'll disappear from Google."
It bothered us. Good, honest people doing good, honest work—getting taken advantage of because they don't speak the language.
What We Actually Believe
Education over mystification
We'd rather teach you why something matters than keep you dependent on us. If you understand what your Google Business Profile does, you'll make better decisions—whether you hire us or not.
Transparency in pricing
We tell you exactly what things cost and why. No vague "marketing packages." No monthly fees that balloon over time. You know what you're paying for.
You own everything
Your domain. Your code. Your content. If you want to walk away tomorrow and run things yourself, you can. We don't believe in lock-in.
Continual improvement
We're always learning—new tools, better practices, what's actually working for local businesses right now. We bring that knowledge to every project.
The Anti-Ripoff Stance
We write about what SEO companies are really selling you because we've seen the contracts. We explain which paid ads actually work because we've seen people waste thousands on the wrong platforms.
This isn't just marketing. It genuinely frustrates us to see contractors—people who do real, valuable work—getting taken advantage of by smooth-talking salespeople who know their targets don't understand the technology.
Things we won't do:
- ✕Charge you for vague "monthly SEO optimization"
- ✕Lock your domain so you can't leave
- ✕Sell you services you don't need
- ✕Make simple things sound complicated to justify fees
- ✕Disappear after we take your money
Who This Is For
We work best with contractors and local service businesses who:
- Want a professional website without the ongoing mystery fees
- Appreciate straightforward communication
- Are open to learning (at least a little) about how this stuff works
- Value honesty over sales pitches
- Are building something they're proud of
If that sounds like you, we'll probably get along.
The Bottom Line
I'm not trying to build an empire. I'm trying to help good businesses do well online—without the usual BS.
You need a website that works. Maybe some help with your Google listing. Straight answers about what's worth paying for and what isn't.
I'm here for that. Let's talk.