text: i want to start a web based business (website), what is the best way to approach this? i want to start a website. is there a way i can run the web hosting myself or would it be best to hire someone? if i have to hire someone, who is the best? i think it depends on what kind of business you are interested in starting. will you be selling something on-line (i.e. retailer) or will it be for information (possibly for a brick and mortar)?   imo an on-line retail site would be more difficult to set up, but it is possible for you to run and host it. i use 'dreamhost' which has the ability to host your site and set up retailer shopping carts.   an information site will be easy, since all you have to do is create pages telling about your services, and include contact information - either an email or an on line form someone can fill out.   as for hiring someone, that will cost some money to create, design, and host. in addition you will need to go back to them from time to time in order to make changes. in nyc a freelancer can charge anywhere from $25/hr and up; plus hosting costs.