free website builder with existing domain name
How to connect your domain to a free website builder, set up SEO basics, and start simple marketing — step-by-step.
Have a domain but want the simplicity of a drag-and-drop or free builder? This guide walks you through the exact steps to connect your domain, optimise for search, and get your first visitors without technical headaches.
1. Prepare your domain: what to check first
Before you touch a site builder, make sure your domain is ready. These quick checks save hours.
Confirm domain ownership
- Log in to the registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Cloudflare, etc.).
- Note the account email and confirm you can receive messages there.
- Unlock the domain and disable transfer lock only if you plan to transfer later.
Check DNS control
You need access to edit DNS records (A, CNAME, TXT). If your domain is managed by a third party, ask them to make changes or transfer DNS to your control.
2. Choose the right free website builder
Not all free builders are equal when using an existing domain. Pick one that lets you connect custom domains (some require a paid plan). Here’s how to decide quickly.
Allow custom domains
Some builders only allow custom domains on paid plans. Check the documentation first.
Friendly DNS setup
Prefer builders with clear A/CNAME or nameserver instructions and sample DNS entries.
SEO & analytics
Choose builders that let you edit page titles, meta descriptions, and add Google Analytics / GA4.
- Carrd (simple landing pages)
- Netlify/Render + static site generators (advanced, free tiers)
- Webflow (free plan for design, custom domains usually paid)
- Google Sites (simple, sometimes limited DNS options)
- Site builders bundled with domain registrars (read terms)
3. Connect your existing domain — step-by-step
General steps that apply to most builders. Replace exact values with the instructions your chosen builder provides.
Step A — Add site and choose use custom domain
- Create the site in the builder and select "Connect existing domain" or similar.
- The builder will show DNS records to add (A record, CNAME, or nameserver changes).
- Keep that screen open; you’ll need the exact values.
Step B — Edit DNS at your registrar
- Log in to your registrar and open DNS management for the domain.
- Add/replace A records with the IP(s) the builder provides (example: 192.0.2.1).
- Add a CNAME for www pointing to the builder's hostname (example: site.builder.com).
- If instructed, replace nameservers (only do this if you understand the impact — it moves DNS control).
Step C — Add verification TXT if required
Some builders ask you to add a TXT record to verify ownership. Example:
Step D — Wait and verify
DNS propagation often takes minutes but can be up to 48 hours. Use the builder's verify button and check with tools like dnschecker.org.
4. Essential site setup after connection
Once your domain points to the builder, finish key settings so your site is discoverable and professional.
Set page titles & meta
Open each important page and set a unique Title and Meta Description. Keep titles under ~60 characters and descriptions under ~155.
Contact info & NAP
Display phone, address, and business hours clearly. Use the same business name, address, phone across site and listings (NAP consistency helps local SEO).
Images & alt text
Use compressed images (webp when possible). Add descriptive alt text that includes keywords naturally: "plumber fixing sink in Melbourne kitchen".
Enable HTTPS
Most builders provide free SSL. Turn it on immediately — browsers and Google expect HTTPS.
5. SEO basics that actually move the needle
Simple, high-impact SEO tasks you can do in under an hour.
1. Page Titles
Include primary keyword and location. Keep it clear and clickable.
2. Meta Descriptions
Sell the click — include benefit + CTA (e.g., "Call today for a free quote").
3. Heading structure
Use H1 once (page title), H2 for sections. Keep headings descriptive and keyword-aware.
4. Content that helps users
Write short, benefit-focused content. Answer common questions and include local references where relevant.
5. Structured data
Add JSON-LD for organization and local business if the builder allows custom head code. This improves rich results.
6. Submit sitemap
If the builder exposes a sitemap URL (sitemap.xml), submit it to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools.
6. Speed & mobile — 4 quick improvements
Google cares about Core Web Vitals and mobile experience. These four actions improve both fast.
- Compress images: Use 70–80% quality WebP or optimized JPG; keep hero images under 200KB when possible.
- Avoid heavy widgets: Remove unused scripts, chat widgets, or large embeds on the homepage.
- Use builder performance tools: Many builders optimise assets automatically — enable image lazy-loading and minification.
- Test mobile responsiveness: Open the site on real phones. Buttons should be large enough and text readable without zoom.
7. Easy and cheap marketing to get your first visitors
You don't need expensive ads to drive initial traction. Start with these practical steps.
Google Business Profile
Create or claim your GBP listing, match NAP, add photos, services, and request reviews from happy customers.
Local citations
Add your business to local directories (Yellow Pages, TrueLocal, local chamber). Consistent info helps local search.
Email & SMS
Collect emails with a simple signup and send one welcome offer. If you have permission, a one-time SMS promotion works great.
Ask for reviews
Reach out to past customers with a short message and a direct Google review link.
Simple social posts
Share a 30-second video or before/after photos; link back to a dedicated landing page with an offer.
Small targeted ads
If you run paid ads, start with a $5–10/day campaign targeting your suburb + service keywords to test demand.
8. Troubleshooting checklist
Common problems and fast fixes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep email with my registrar if I change nameservers?
Do free builders let me add Google Analytics?
What if I outgrow the free plan?
Ready to connect your domain and publish?
If you want a fast, no-fuss way to get a professional site live with an existing domain, try a demo or builder walkthrough.
No technical knowledge required — most sites can be live the same day after DNS propagation.
Need hands-on help? Congero builds and connects sites instantly and handles DNS, SSL, SEO, and updates for one flat monthly fee — no lock-in.
Image credits: stock / generated placeholders.
