Quick answerNeither a freelancer nor an agency is automatically the better choice.
Signal 01
Compare the working model
A freelancer may offer direct communication and a focused relationship, which can suit a small business site with a clear scope. An agency may bring several specialties or more capacity for a project with multiple workstreams. But the labels do not tell you exactly who will do the work: ask who handles strategy, design, development, content, testing, and ongoing support.
Ask how decisions are made, who your day-to-day contact will be, and how the provider handles changes. Find out what happens if a team member is unavailable and who controls accounts and website files. Compare proposals by deliverables and recurring responsibilities rather than assuming one model costs more or guarantees more quality.
For either option, a useful proposal should explain the pages, features, client inputs, timeline assumptions, launch tasks, and what is separate. Discuss e-commerce or unusual integrations explicitly; do not assume they are included in a basic website package.
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Choose the setup that matches your scope
If you need a straightforward business website, a smaller direct working relationship may be enough. If your needs are complex, ask how the provider will cover each skill and coordinate responsibilities.
LOITTEB works directly with Hamilton-area businesses on custom web design, redesign, management, and hosting. You can read about its Hamilton service (https://loitteb.ca/web-design-hamilton/) and request a free website review (https://loitteb.ca/free-website-review/) to clarify your needs before deciding.