I already have one site that has been up and running for about three years now. Overall, I'm happy with it but I see the need for some tweaks and updating.
In the meantime, I need to get another site up and running, but don't know a **** thing about builiding a site. My other site was built for me as a personal favor by someone who is no longer available.
So, I'm wondering if anyone can recommend some of the many build-your-own programs that are available? For example, I have a few domains registered at godaddy, and they offer a program to build a site. Anyone have first hand experience with any of these types of programs? Or am I better off having someone build the site for me?

Carbo, I'm generally not a big fan of website builders. I think none code a web page all that well and there are many benefits to having good code behind your pages.

I do lean to having someone design and develop the site though I know it can seem expensive and cost prohibitive at first, but I think in the long run you get that money back by having the site done right from the outset.

Now that doesn't mean you can't use a site builder. I've seen a lot of good sites produced with both and I think sitebuilders are getting better, but at the moment I don't see them delivering quality sites.

If you do fo the route of hiring someone though keep in mind that not all designers and developers are created equal. Sadly there are some who will probably give you a site that's worse than a site bulder. It's best to do your homework and shop around when looking for someone to design your site.

I'm leaning towards having the site built. I, too, am a bit skeptical about any of these websites-in-a-box type of program. My issue is I don't know any website designer, so I'm leery about putting my faith, (and cash), in the hands of just anyone.

That's where places like this come in handy. Eventually you should learn to do things yourself anyway. But along the way, you can work on thins and have others look at it to see what should be fixed.

I can understand Carbo. The best thing is to look around. Start by taking a look at the portfolios of designers and make a note of the ones whose work you like. Most designers will give you a free consultation so give a few a call and get a feel for them and what they say. In the end you will need to trust someone, but you can get a idea if you can by talking to them for a little while.

You may also want to do a little research about web design in general and what makes for a good site. You don't need to become an expert, but a little information can help a lot in knowing what questions to ask potential designers as well as being able to help through the ones just feeding you some lines to make a sale.

There's always going to be a little risk involved in any purchase, but if you do a little homework you should be able to minimize the risk. Keep in mind that cheapest isn't always best and definitely give some designers a call or at the very least send them an email. You'll learn alot about them just by the initial response you'll get.

well i dont like web builders at all, they are complete crap and i think everyone agrees

if u already have web hosting i would suggest you use fantastico to install a premade cms (content management system)

joomla has a pretty professional look to it. and u dont need to know html to use it.

other advantages are that you will have php login and other scripts already installed.

its up to you though

Please give us some ideas on the features and use of this new site. We can then better reply.

If you want an interactive website, you would need to use a scripting language to do it. You can't just use plain HTML.
You can hire a freelance web designer who can help you design your website.

I use contribute3 to build my websites it very easy to use. you get the full version/the key. when you sighn up for webhosting at www.namesecure.com
you can download contribute3 at www.macromedia.com. I hope this helps you.