Optimizing Domain Management and Website Solutions for Creative Professionals

Looking for Expert Advice on Domain Renewal and Building an Artist Website

As an artist venturing into the digital space, navigating domain registration and website creation can seem overwhelming—especially if you’re not deeply familiar with the technical aspects. I’m reaching out to seek guidance on a few pressing concerns related to domain management and establishing an effective online presence.

Recently, I was billed $126 by GoDaddy for my “.com” domain renewal and additional privacy protection services. However, I haven’t utilized GoDaddy’s services for several years, and these charges don’t seem to appear on my account dashboard. I plan to contest this billing, as I haven’t accessed or authorized these services recently. My goal is to recover the funds if possible, but I want to ensure I don’t jeopardize the ownership of my domain.

My primary consideration is whether this fee is reasonable or if I can request a refund given the lack of recent service usage. Additionally, I am concerned that if I relinquish my domain registration with GoDaddy, it might be snapped up by someone else—potentially leading to increased costs for reacquisition. Is this a realistic concern, or is there a better way to safeguard my creative brand online?

I would also appreciate recommendations for reputable domain registration services that offer affordable transfer options—preferably with straightforward processes for moving my current domain. Furthermore, I need advice on the most suitable website builders and hosting platforms tailored for artists, including painters, photographers, and writers. I previously built a more complex site with GoDaddy, but unfortunately, I didn’t renew it, and my files were lost, so I’ll be starting from scratch.

If this isn’t the best forum for such inquiries, I’d be grateful for pointers to other communities or resources. Your expertise and suggestions are highly valued—thank you in advance for your assistance!