Cheap but reliable web hosting?

[melle]

Hi all - I am a freelance health writer looking to set up a website - I have the domain name in mind and know it is still available but have not purchased it yet because many sites offer "all in one". I have looked at a lot of different hosting services - but since this is not my area.....I don't know how to make the right choice. I am not looking to spend a great deal of money initially (obviously).

I am familiar with (and already own) dreamweaver and so I don't think I need a proprietary webpage builder unless they have some perfect template....which I have not found so far!

My basic idea is that I can offer samples of my work but also have a blog with archiving to talk about my experiences as a freelance writer and write about healthcare topics that interest me. Ideally, I would be able to generate traffic from my site to other writers sites, including my own. Possibly later on, I may want to offer the purchase of ebooks so I would need to be able to set up a "store" I think - and maybe offer clients a way to negotiate and purchase services...possibly using paypal.

Any ideas from all of the web designers?

Thanks for the help in advance as this forum is always helpful!

[visuals4u]

Since you're interested in blogging, I recommend Wordpress. This site is extremely popular with the search engines. So, that plus your healthcare topics should generate good traffic for you. If you have additional questions, let me know.

[Susie N]

I would also recommend using Wordpress to power your website. There are some very wonderful themes (designs) out there that are both free and very affordable that might interest you. Some to check out:

WooThemes|Premium WordPress Themes
StudioPress Premium WordPress Themes
Premium Wordpress Themes from Theme Atlas

Personally, I like to use Godaddy for purchasing domain names. But I do NOT recommend their hosting. I like to keep domain names and hosting separate, too. It just makes things much easier when it comes time to switch hosts (which inevitably happens). For hosting, I've been happy with Host Gator and InMotion.

[craftydelisa]

I use www.3ix.com - 3iX provides reliable web hosting, 1 dollar web hosting, cheap web hosting it is 12.00 per year. I haven't had any problems with them. They are always helpful.