The first thing you need to consider is the design. Just because a template "looks cool" doesn't mean your visitors will find it cool. One reality of the internet is clear.... web surfers are looking for content and how you deliver the content is vital.

The problem with a lot of templates is overuse of graphics, flash and other features. Sure, they look neat, but the problem is that these things tend to create a "cluttered" effect on the page. It distracts from the content and makes it difficult for the eye to focus on one particular area. Having your site visitors focus on the content is what will keep them at your site, make purchases, and come back again. As a general rule, a good template is designed to "compliment" the content, not "conflict" it.

One thing you should always consider is the experience you'll be bringing to your site visitors. Think about how the design of the web page will deliver the content.

The second thing you need to consider is your own skill level. If you know absolutely nothing about web design then you're going to need a little help to get started. If you know your way around basic html and graphics then you shouldn't have any problems.... as long as you stick to a template design that you can actually manage! Some are in Photoshop format, some in HTML. Make sure you read all the details of what is involved in editing a particular developer's template before purchasing anything! Most will provide a complete overview of what you'll need to do, others may not. It's recommended that if you have any questions at all, just ask.

For the average person, a good template is relatively easy to use, doesn't require any special software or editing and easy to maintain for years to come.

The third thing to consider is a developer's copyright and terms of use. Some expect you to pay commissions, some offer templates as being royalty-free, some expect a link back, some don't. Familiarize yourself with the rules to avoid any potential problems. Keep in mind that due to the template boom there has been a lot of fraud occurring involving the unauthorized distribution and resale of web page templates. Just like software, this is illegal yet some people still do it. Don't just pick up bundles of templates from anywhere - do your research. And NEVER buy a package of templates that is being offered as having resell rights. I can almost guarantee that they are illegal copies. Good templates are royalty-free, come with email or forum support, and distributed by only the author's website or an authorized affiliate or reseller.

And for the record, "Royalty-Free" does not mean: (free to sell, free to give away, free to do whatever you want). Royalty-free, in simplest terms, means you are paying a one-time fee for the use of product and not required to pay any further commissions for it's useage.

Hopefully this article will help you make good decisions when considering a template for your website.