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It’s crazy what some people will try to charge you for when, in reality, it is not needed.  Things that we have been given step-by-step directions to, others offer to do for us for a cost that can only be seen as highway robbery.  But that does not stop people from being convinced to still pay for it.  As a new company, or non-profit, there are many steps that need to be taken, so saving where you can is key.  Let’s look at a few areas that many will try to sway you to pay for, that you can do on your own and save the expense for a more important time.

1. State filings for your business

Every state has a site for new businesses and organizations, that they can go to for information on starting a company.  Virignia (http://www.scc.virginia.gov/) even will give you the necessary forms to fill out, so that you can file without having to pay someone to draft your documents.  From the start, you can save in the filing process instead of paying some in upwards of $500 – $1000 to do this 20 minute process for you.  Is this wise advice for a start-up to be given?  We don’t think so, which is why we are showing you a better (and less expensive) way to do it.  Why spend the money for this assistance when the state tells you how it needs to be done, and walks you through it.  You can even finish the process by doing your business license, EIN and banking set-up, all online.  Because the state will walk with you through the process, opt to save and do it yourself.

2. Website Content Maintenance

Affari might be one of the few design and development companies that will tell you that the content maintenance of your site can be done by you, for much less than many will try to charge.  By creating a site on a platform like we do (in WordPress) that is easy to understand, we like to empower our clients to have a hand in the continued direction of their site.  By giving you the tools to keep your site current,it prevents it from becoming stagnant.  Instead of nickel and dimming your company every time you want to change something, have your site created on a platform that can be easily maintained.  From the launch, we show you how to update aspects of your site therefore saving you money!

3. Non-profit Filings

Now this one can be tricky, but some will try to charge you over $2500 (+ the filing fees) to walk you through the forms that the IRS requires.  What if you could do it for half that (or less)?  That would allow your funds to be spent in a better location, to help grow your company.  The form does not change, so if you understand it, and you get to know the organization, then the cost to help a non-profit through it should not be that high, so be careful in what people are offering.  Our advice, BE CAREFUL and CHOOSE WISELY, because many will over promise and under deliver, and for the amount that they charge, their profit is at the expense of your non-profit.

4. Networking

A network cannot be bought, so if you see someone selling theirs, be warned.  A network has to be built and time + energy have to be poured into it to see it grow.  There are areas that can be an advantage in certain networks, but make sure that the “cost” to join is worth the opportunities and hard leads on the flip side.  Nothing beats hard work, proper execution of service and word-of-mouth.

Our hope is to offer you a way to launch you business or organization without going into debt for it.  There are aspects to your business, brand and web design that you should pay for, but there are many that can be done on your own.   If you are looking to start your own company or non-profit, and have questions, let us know.  We would be happy to help you and provide you with the needed support.