Templates and custom development can both be sensible choices. The right option depends on your goals, budget, timeline and how distinctive the required functionality needs to be.
When a template makes sense
A quality template can be efficient for a straightforward brochure site with standard content and limited custom behaviour, especially when speed to launch is the priority.
When custom development earns its value
Custom work becomes more useful when brand differentiation, performance, unusual workflows, integrations or long-term extensibility are central to the project.
Look beyond the launch price
Consider future changes, plugin dependence, licensing, performance and developer availability. A cheap starting point can become costly if every improvement requires fighting the original structure.
Choose based on requirements
Write down the must-have user journeys and business outcomes first. Then compare approaches against those requirements rather than choosing based on screenshots alone.
Final thoughts
There is no universal winner. A professional recommendation should explain what you gain, what you give up and how the chosen approach supports the next few years of the business.