If you’re a business owner in Toronto looking to build or revamp your website in 2025, choosing the right web developer can make or break your online success. A strong website isn’t just about design—it’s about performance, SEO, user experience, and long-term support.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for when hiring a web developer in Toronto, along with practical tips to help you make the right decision.
Experience with Local Businesses
When searching for a web developer in Toronto, prioritize someone who understands the local market. Toronto businesses have specific needs—from local SEO optimization to compliance with Canadian accessibility laws (AODA). A developer familiar with the area can tailor your website to attract and convert local customers.
Ask:
“Have you worked with other businesses in Toronto or the GTA?”
Custom WordPress Development
Many developers rely on pre-made templates that limit performance and uniqueness. In 2025, having a custom-built WordPress website gives you the flexibility to scale, improve speed, and create a tailored user experience.
Look for developers who offer:
- Clean, lightweight custom themes
- No bloated page builders
- Custom functionality (booking, reviews, filters, etc.)
- Headless or hybrid WordPress options
Mobile Optimization & Core Web Vitals
Over 70% of traffic now comes from mobile devices. Your developer must deliver a site that’s fully responsive and passes Google’s Core Web Vitals to help you rank better and reduce bounce rates.
Key mobile factors:
- Touch-friendly buttons and forms
- Fast loading speeds on 3G/4G
- Compressed images and lazy loading
- Optimized for Google PageSpeed Insights
SEO-Friendly Code & Structure
A beautiful website is useless if no one finds it. Choose a developer who understands technical SEO, not just design.
They should provide:
- SEO-friendly URL structures
- Proper heading hierarchy (H1-H6)
- Schema markup (LocalBusiness, Reviews, Services)
- Clean code and fast performance
Website Maintenance & Support
Websites aren’t “set and forget” in 2025. You’ll need ongoing updates, backups, plugin maintenance, security monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Ask if they offer:
- Monthly maintenance plans
- Security & performance audits
- Emergency bug fixes or uptime monitoring
Portfolio and Reviews
Always check their past work and ask for references. A strong portfolio reflects not just visual design but usability and performance.
Look for:
- Live demo links
- Projects for businesses similar to yours
- Google reviews or testimonials on the site
Transparent Pricing
Web development pricing can vary, but a good developer will offer clear breakdowns for:
- Design & development
- Additional features (e-commerce, booking, etc.)
- Maintenance and support
- Hosting/domain setup if needed
Avoid vague “package deals” with hidden costs.
Communication & Workflow
A good web developer will treat your project like a collaboration—not a transaction.
Ask about their process:
- How do you communicate (email, Zoom, phone)?
- Do you offer wireframes or prototypes first?
- How do you handle revisions and approvals?
A structured process saves time and avoids confusion.
Choosing the right web developer in Toronto is about more than technical skills—it’s about finding someone who understands your business goals, your customers, and the ever-changing digital landscape.
At Timofey.ca, we’ve helped Toronto-based businesses build fast, responsive, and SEO-optimized websites for over 20 years. Whether you need a fresh design, WordPress optimization, or long-term support, we’re here to help.