Hiring a remote web developer from the USA, UK or Australia
How I make time zones, payments and communication work as a remote web developer for clients on the other side of the world.
Most of my clients are in the USA, UK and Australia and we have never met in person. That works well, but only because we sort out a few things at the start. If you are thinking about hiring a remote developer, these are the things worth asking about.
Overlap hours
I keep a few hours every day that overlap with UK working hours, US mornings or Australian afternoons, depending on the client. Calls happen in that window. Everything else moves forward while you sleep, which often makes projects faster, not slower.
Written updates
Every week you get a short written update and a live preview link. You should never have to wonder what is happening or chase anyone for a status.
One shared channel
Slack, WhatsApp or email, whatever you already use. Feedback, files and decisions live in one place so nothing gets lost.
Payments in your currency
I invoice in USD, GBP or AUD, usually a deposit and then milestones tied to design sign-off and launch. You always know what the next payment is for.
You own everything
Code, design files, domains and hosting accounts are in your name from day one. If you ever want to move on, you take everything with you.
Contracts and scope
A short written agreement with the scope, timeline, payment milestones and who owns what. It protects both of us and makes it obvious when something is a change request rather than part of the original job.
Red flags to watch for
Vague timelines, no portfolio you can click through, no written updates and a reluctance to put accounts in your name. A good remote web developer is easy to reach and happy to show their work.
Questions to ask on the first call
What would you build this on, and why? What do you need from me? How will I see progress? What happens after launch? The answers tell you more than any portfolio.
A trial project is fine
If you are unsure, start small: a landing page, a speed audit, a redesign of one page. It is the easiest way to see how we work together before committing to something bigger.