So you've heard about 'getting online' and 'getting your own domain' and 'building your own site' and blah blah blah.

Ever wonder what's REALLY required for that?

If so, take a gander at:

Before You Begin - Your Own Online Real Estate

A very simple way to think about your website is.... it's a brilliant open shining space on which you can put anything that's readable by Internet browsers (ie, html files like what you're reading now, a social networking arena, a business site, etc.).

Now, you're probably thinking of course, "Jeepers! Just WHERE do I put those html files? Heck, where does the website physically reside?"

And those are superb questions indeed! Let's dive into:

Step 1 - Websites Require a Domain Name, Hosting and Content.

Wasn't that simple? :-)

Your domain name is like your business or personal address. Think about it - when you want people to visit you, you tell them, drop by at 1234 Main Street, right? (well okay, you probably give your own address, but the point remains).

Your domain name serves the same purpose.

Domain names can cost anywhere from less than $10 to $35 per year or so. You have to renew them every year as well!

You can get a great deal on domains over at our Godaddy Reseller's account:

Smart Internet Edge

I've negotiated a deal for you that gives you the same great GoDaddy service at a much cheaper price.

But buying a domain is one thing - actually getting the space on which to host it is entirely another!

Here's where your web hosting comes into play. You will have to pay anywhere from $5 a month to, well, lots more a month for the SPACE on which to put your domain files.

I can recommend:

• New Web Site Owlbert.com Special Offer

• Go Daddy

• Host Gator

Check out an article I wrote 10+ years ago for realtors on the Art of Choosing a Domain Name. It's still quite valid today.

Once you have your domain name and web host space, it's time to think about:

Step 2 - Content

So you have a domain name (yay!)....what do you do now?

Why, you build your site, of course. :)

The best resource by far for newbies to get a high-quality profitable site for themselves is to explore

Site Build It

Fact is, when you want complete guidance and resources to start RIGHT the FIRST time, you just can't go wrong with SBI...because you learn now just HOW to build your site, but also are given the tools so your site gets known to your targeted audience as well.

But if you want to teach yourself how to build sites, check out:

• Build Your Own Website

• Build A Website For You

You can also look for free templates and the like at

• Free Web Site Templates

• Jims World Free Web Site Templates

• Free Layouts

Oh, and did you know....you can also use blogging software too to build a complete custom-niche website! The Webcomic Nicky 510 is built via that fashion.

You're only limited by your imagination.

Step 3 - For More Information

To learn more about building your own website, check out:

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