A new custom web design featuring real estate vacation rental ads was launched earlier using CMS, a Content Management System, allowing the webmaster to add property without knowing HTML code. The site is a rent by owner USA vacation property ad directory for owners, property managers, and realtors to upload free or low cost ads for USA short term rentals.



As the site owner, another purpose of the site is to demonstrate CMS capabilities to realtors interested in real estate templates for a custom web design, also. The layout is suitable for property sales as well as rentals, or both.

Initially the site is in test mode with the first rental listing from Central Florida, and new USA vacation rental properties will be added in the coming days and weeks. Visitors may join as members to view vacation property details including rates, and save favorites, plus view bookings availability calendars.

Owners or managers of rental property may join as agents to immediately begin adding listings with up to 8 photos per rent by owner vacation ad. Ads for listings are available to upload or edit 24/7, and real estate agents or homeowners gain instant access.

In addition, the site features a Rent by Owner USA Vacations blog using Blogger and integrated with a matching color scheme which will provide advice and tips for tourists and owners. Both were done in XHTML with CSS for fast loading and streamlined code. Visit the main real estate vacation rental ad website here, and the rent by owner USA vacations blog here.



TAGS: blog template custom website design content management system real estate website launch

Labels: blogger, launch, templates, websites

                       

The latest episode of the Small Business Website Mailbag podcast features an updated tutorial for adding blog social bookmarks and matching graphics to blog posts done in Blogger whether hosted by them or hosted on your server. Each version includes a separate tutorial with bonus graphics, step by step instructions, and the actual code to add to your Blogger template.

This updated tutorial replaces one done a year ago that covered revised templates for the old Blogger and new Blogger (beta), and provides advice for alternate formats for WordPress, TypePad, and others. As usual, you do not have to register or give an email address to get your copy of the free download tutorials. Each zipped folder is 12Kb and includes a text tutorial, actual code for revising your Blogger template, and a set of free graphics of my top 12 social bookmarking services.

Readers are invited to listen to the Blog Social Bookmarks Tutorial episode and then download the free Blogger tutorials.



TAGS: advice blog template podcast Blogger small business advice tutorials

Labels: advice, blogger, podcast, templates, tutorials

                       

One day, perhaps, website developers will be able to create the perfect template to display blog pages that comply to W3C standards with perfect XHTML in Blogger blogs. The goal is currently impossible because of how the blog "engine" generates blog posts at the instant you publish.

Content generated external to the template and css that web developers design for blogs is the reason. This content includes hidden code that identifies the blog as shown below in this snippet of results from the W3C XHTML validation service for just one post on my blog:

g?blogID=38647469&postID=5457517960262

The highlighted and underlined content above is the culprit. The ampersand symbol is a special reserved character in XHTML, and to display properly without creating a code error it must have it's full ASCII 5-character code and not just the single character as typed from your keyboard. The highlighted text of &postID should read &postID to be correct per W3C.

Unfortunately, this small problem generates multiple instances and errors on each post, and it is completely out of the control of you or your blog designer. The only solution will happen when the technical team and programmers at Blogger choose to modify their system to insert the ampersand with the full ASCII 5-character code. Don't hold your breath. It's like pushing a glacier.

Does this really matter? From a technical point, no. From a practical point, yes, because the solution is easy. Your blog will look fine with 250 code errors, yet if browser companies and web developers are driven to comply with standards for zero code errors, it would be nice to have Blogger get on board, too.

Finally, if you follow a permalink to any individual post on this blog, and then validate per W3C, there are 28 code errors. Unlike my main site which displays the Valid XHTML 1.1 and CSS2 badges with zero code errors, the blog is doomed for now to being nice, not perfect.

The blog issue and other external factors used to create multimedia content use deprecated code, so my goal of perfect code has been revised to accept the reality of designing with near zero errors.



TAGS: blog blogger blog template website design xhtml

Labels: blogger, general, templates, websites

                       

In preparation of the release of another integrated custom website design and blog, the design for the SolarusUSA Awning and Shade Advice blog launched today. This manufacturer and distributor of custom retractable awnings and screens ships nationwide and internationally, as well as installing retractable awning systems in the South Florida area. Do-it-yourself kits can be shipped to customers and dealers in the USA, Canada, and South America.

The following screenshot of this custom small business blog is shown smaller than actual size.



The new main site for SolarusUSA should launch within a week and will include product information, pricing, a photo gallery, and two galleries of awning fabric choices from over 400 colors.

The web design technique for the fabric gallery uses xhtml and css to achieve a mouseover effect without using scripts. Placing 50 fabric swatches and photos of each on one page is very efficient allowing visitors to view all 50 photographs without scrolling down their screen.



TAGS: blog blog template launch small business services website design

Labels: blogger, launch, templates, websites

                       

I finished the design of another custom website in xhtml with css, plus matching custom blog template, and both launched this weekend for Ultimate Riddles, a Christian site about spiritual truths and Bible study with an accompanying blog documenting Bible study progress. An integrated blog allows adding new content often which helps with SEO, Search Engine Optimization.


This graphic of the custom website design shown above is a screenshot from the site smaller than actual size and the design graphics include a golden sunset background and elegant script logo. Most of my clients know that my life and business are faith based, and www.UltimateRiddles.com is a personal venture to share results of studying the Bible going back to the languages of the original manuscripts. Visitors are invited to comment.



TAGS: blog blog template launch seo search engine optimization small business services custom website design

Labels: blogger, launch, seo, templates, websites

                       

A custom small business website for CDA Alliance recently launched, and the owner has taken over managing the site which includes a matching private forum. This CMS, or custom Content Management System website design is another option for clients of the Small Business Resource Center.



The advantage of taking control of your small business website and freely adding content depends on your willingness to climb the learning curve that is involved. The site design fee is nominal compared to a fully custom website, yet the investment in time learning the functions may not be practical for all clients.

Another option to easily add original quality content is a fully integrated custom blog.



TAGS: advice blog template custom website design cms content management system forum launch website design

Labels: advice, blogger, launch, templates, websites

                       

Another custom website design with matching integrated blog launched this weekend for RR Accounting and Tax Services of Kissimmee, Florida.



The main part of the tax accountant custom website features horizontal top navigation using CSS, custom web graphics, XHTML with CSS for code, and cloaked email to avoid junk mail from spambots, plus a custom favicon with a single letter "R". The color scheme, header, and footer graphics of the accounting and tax advice blog matches their main site. Blogs are great for improving seo, search engine optimization, because they allow owners to easily add fresh content often.

Additional content including a list of services, online library, and bilingual versions of all web pages are being added during November 2007. Besides bookkeeping and tax preparation, RR Accounting and Tax Services can assist you with Incorporations, New Company Setup, Accounting Software Tutorials, Immigration Services, Tax Problem Resolution, Divorce Filing Petitions, Notary Services, Term Life Insurance, and Investments, plus more.

My core business is custom small business website design with matching custom new blogger templates, and the layout of this bilingual website site allowed us to go live while waiting for additional content including Spanish translations.



TAGS: blog blog template seo search engine optimization small business services custom blogger template

Labels: blogger, launch, seo, templates, websites

                       

A new custom website launched today for Mannion Custom Painting, LLC of Cumming GA with a matching custom integrated blog.



Here is some information about their Atlanta area home and business painting services taken from their home page:

Our Ultimate Goal is Satisfied Customers: When you entrust your property to Mannion Custom Painting, we go out of our way to create a positive experience. We offer free estimates, consultation for coating and color selection, detailed proposals, excellent craftsmanship, and a written warranty and guarantee on every project.

Learn more about new blogger custom template design here. Blogging offers advantages in SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, because regular posting allows you to add quality original content to your website often.



TAGS: blog blog template seo search engine optimization small business services custom blogger template

Labels: blogger, launch, seo, templates, websites

                       

A new custom website launched today for Adams Florida Homeowner Services with a matching custom integrated blog. This excerpt from their home page explains their business best:

We emigrated to Florida from the UK and understand the dreams of people wanting to start a new life in America, and why not? Florida is one of the most idyllic and exciting places in the world. However, vacationing and living in Florida are very different when holiday is certainly over!

Adams Florida Homeowner Services are in place to provide Florida homeowners with the satisfaction, confidence and above all peace of mind that their home or rental property is being presented and cared for to a high standard. Our information resources for new Florida residents will help ease the transition once you decide to move here permanently.

The new blogger custom template design features matching graphics, social bookmark service chicklets, and preloaded labels, plus a 15 page tutorial with illustrated step by step blogging instructions.

Blogging is a great way to add quality fresh content often integrated with your main website. The advantages in SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, are worth the time it takes to become a blogger.



TAGS: blog blog template seo search engine optimization small business services custom blogger template

Labels: blogger, launch, seo, templates, websites

                       

Last February I released free artwork of a 2007 business card calendar for the benefit of my small business clients. The 2008 version was released today.

This free 2008 business card size calendar artwork in 300 dpi JPG is yours to download with no obligation. The file is in a zip folder (336kb) and the artwork is 3.625 inch x 2.125 inch to allow for trimming to the US standard 3.50 x 2.00 business card. You do not have to register or reveal your email address and may download immediately from this link:



Right click on card and "save target as" to download now.

If you need 2007, the free 2007 calendar artwork download is still here.



TAGS: small business resources graphic artwork 2008 calendar free calendar

Labels: artwork, templates

                       

Custom website design services have been expanded for clients interested in e-commerce websites, online stores, CMS Content Management Systems, and forums or message boards. Pricing for budgetary purposes for dynamic interactive sites are as follows:

$1000 for custom Forum or Message Board website design
$1500 for custom CMS Content Management System website design
$2000 for custom E-Commerce Online Store website design
$3000 for custom Main Site with Online Store website design

Price includes installation with a custom look and basic setup. The client will be given resources for learning how to load and manage their e-commerce website, content management system, or forum community message board.

These custom website packages allow customers to take over managing their website by adding or deleting content without knowing the details of HTML code. Most begin with a free open source template to save $1000's in design fees, and each is customized for a unique look including custom graphics.

Small business owners don't have to spend $5000 or more for an online store, forum, or CMS website when affordable options are available from the Small Business Resource Center.

In addition, a custom integrated blog may be added to the package which allows easy publishing of advice and news. The benefits of adding fresh content often may be realized with any of these custom package dynamic website designs.



TAGS: custom website design e-commerce small business services content management system cms forum online store

Labels: templates, websites

                       

Soon after the launch of their new custom website, customer Adams Florida Services chose to have an optional custom integrated blog added to their online home. The custom blog matches the main site color scheme, and will provide advice for Orlando area lawn care, landscaping, and pressure washing services and tips for their visitors and clients throughout Central Florida.

Their first post promises future advice including before and after photographs to demonstrate the difference that professional lawn service and landscape design can do to enhance the look and value of residential and commercial property.

The new blogger custom template design features matching graphics to the main site, 12 major social bookmark service chicklets, and preloaded labels. Blog designs from the Small Business Resource Center include a 15 page tutorial with illustrated step by step instructions for creating posts and publishing.

Readers may be interested in learning about the search engine optimization value of blogging for small business website promotion and download the series of free pdf seo reports here.



TAGS: blog blog template seo search engine optimization small business services custom blogger template

Labels: blogger, launch, seo, templates, websites

                       

Graphic artists are welcome to download this custom door tag template created in Xara Xtreme (4Kb zip folder, right click and save target as). This is another in the series and it's the large standard half page size of 4.25 inch by 11.0 inch. No registration, email capture, or signup required. This download is another in my series of free resources to help individuals or small business owners with do-it-yourself custom artwork.

Short tutorial: The template is color coded to identify the safe area for text, the bleed area, and margins. Standard guidelines are in place for easier layout. You may use the entire area for the background, but limit text within the green safe area.

The red box in the template is the doorknob hole section and nothing significant like text or important photos should be placed here because they will be hidden once the door tag is placed on the customer's door knob. The dotted outline is the centered placement of the die cut for the hole, and most printers will slit the tag at a 45 degree angle to the edge.

Once you understand the safe area for text and other limitations you may want to remove all the reference colored blocks from the template to begin your design. Email me with any questions or requests for any special templates.



The above illustration is a reduced size low resolution version of a 2-sided full color door hanger artwork done for a landscaping, lawn care, and pressure washing service company in Orlando. The large blank area near the top is to accommodate the die cut 1.5 inch hole for the door knob and the 45 degree angle slit after printing.

The portion lost in the die cut explains why the top of the front and back do not have real content. One third will be cut out, but I chose to add color in what will be left in the finished door hanger.

Note: You may want to view the photo edit tutorial here to see how the truck and trailer effect was created.



TAGS: xara templates door tag door hanger free download xara xtreme

Labels: artwork, templates, tutorials

                       

Additional small business blogs integrated with matching graphics to the client's main website were launched recently and available to view. JB Owens, Public Insurance Adjusters, provide commercial and residential clients support analyzing property loss due to disaster to maximize insurance benefits. Roll Screen Solutions LLC specializes in retractable screens and awnings for your Florida home or business with custom design motorized or manual products.

Each client blog matches the main site with familiar graphics for a consistent marketing message and corporate identity.



Visit the James B. Owens blog here and the Roll Screen Solutions blog here.

Custom blogs with graphics to match your website provide an easy way to quickly add fresh content to your small business website. Pricing starts at $200 and includes 8 features for your custom template with every order. Visit the custom new blogger template page for more examples of client websites with integrated matching blogs.



TAGS: blogger blogger templates small business services custom website design custom graphic design

Labels: blogger, examples, launch, templates, websites

                       

Download this free Xara Xtreme template for creating a custom door tag, also called door hangers, for advertising your business on residential or commercial doorknobs. Get yours hassle-free without any requirement to register. You do not have to signup, give out your email, or name a pet after me.

Direct marketing advertisements using door tags are a cost effective way to promote your business. This Xara file type xar template includes dimensions, guidelines for outside, bleed, and borders for creating a 3 inch (7.62cm) by 8 inch (20.32cm) door hanger with knob die cut. Here's a brief tutorial for using this free template.

The template is color coded showing the bleed area in yellow, the safe area in green, and the top space in red where the tag die cut doorknob hole and slit will go. The safe area defines the space limit for text. Any text outside the green safe area may be blurry or even rejected by the printer for redesign. Photos and background graphics may extend to the edge including the top red section. A preloaded CMYK palette is included in the template, also.

My advice is extending your background (if you use one) to the very top, and perhaps a photo, but nothing important. Obviously the die cut will remove a large round section; yet extending the background will make your door tag more attractive to the reader.

Download the free door tag template here (5Kb zip file, and in IE simply right click and "save target as") to get yours now. Door hangers are popular for advertising real estate, mortgages, pizza delivery, cleaning services, handyman services, landscaping, and more. View a few custom door tag examples here.

In addition, you may want to read the advice in My 5 Second Rule for Small Business Owners to learn about design strategy for graphic art for websites and printed marketing materials.



TAGS: xara templates templates graphic artwork tutorials door tags xara xtreme

Labels: artwork, templates

                       

After investing 100 plus hours creating and tweaking a new blogger template for my commercial site, custom blogger template design services are now available. The goal was matching the graphics and color scheme so visitors moving from my blog to the main site and back would see very little difference in the overall look. Here's another good example with the Mannion Custom Painting blog.

Small business customers who have read the first two free PDFs in my series of search engine optimization reports pressured me to get blog information documented sooner than "later this year". I selectively chose a few clients to create custom new blogger templates with matching graphics before this announcement making the service available for all.

Here's some of what you get:

1. a custom new blogger template with matching graphics
2. a 15 page personalized blogger tutorial in PDF format
3. registration, installation and testing of your blog
4. registration and account setup with promotional services
5. promotional tools and advice for blog and ping
6. social bookmarking code, registration, and graphics
7. preprogrammed labels to sort posts by categories
8. a list of copy and paste tags for creating new posts

Please note that my free SEO report series including Google Page One in Just 9 Months are based on my experience from May 2006 to February 2007. The custom blogger templates are only available for the new Blogger or old because those are the only ones I've used. Other brands such as WordPress or TypePad may be considered for custom matching graphics. Just ask.



TAGS: blog blogger template custom website design advice

Labels: blogger, templates, websites

                       

A custom blogger template was created for Commercial Door and Access, Inc. of Palm Bay Florida, and this addition to their main website was launched earlier today. The advantage of custom matching graphics for the header and footer, plus similar navigation, is integration of the blog with the main site for a familiar look.



The above snapshot is smaller than actual size and shows the first post at Commercial Door and Access who provide sales and installation of commercial doors and hardware, plus handicap and automatic doors and gates.



TAGS: blog blog template custom website design

Labels: blogger, launch, templates, websites

                       

After making a custom template to integrate a client's blog to match their main website it was time to do mine. The new look of the Small Business Resource Center Blog includes a matching top banner, overall color scheme, and similar footer. Blogs require slightly different coding techniques, and using a template makes an exact match impractical.

Here's a screen shot smaller than actual size of the client's new blog created for Conquer Realty, Inc. in Kissimmee, Florida.



Visitors may be interested in the social bookmarking chicklets and links at the bottom of each post. A tutorial plus free download with all graphics and code to easily add social bookmarks to your old Blogger or new Blogger template was posted previously.



TAGS: blog blog template custom website design advice

Labels: blogger, launch, templates, websites