1. You can switch, for sure. All you’d have to do is point your nameservers under your current domain settings towards the HostGator nameservers (not super user friendly) or ask HostGator to migrate your domain for you (easier).

2. Hmm, not exactly. The paid version (self-hosted WordPress) definitely has a learning curve, but it’s not so difficult that someone can’t overcome it with a few hours of work/familiarizing yourself with it. You’ll need to learn the basics about installing a theme and installing plugins (Google is great for this), and then the basics of writing and drafting a post! It’s not rocket science, but it’s not super clear at first! Definitely a little learning involved! (We did it, and we were not tech savvy at all when we started our blog, so it can be done.) 🙂

1. I have a domain name and a host already (not HostGator) so unsure how that works. I would switch to HostGator but not sure, at all, how. Is that possible?

2. The next question is regarding WordPress. I have the free version on the other hosting site but I have no idea what I am doing. lol. Is the paid version a bit more user-friendly? Thank you!

Haha, there are certainly times that the inspiration isn’t there. 😉 For me, considering the alternative — going back to a 9 to 5 — is all the motivation I need. There may be a day or two where I’m in a writer’s funk, but remembering why I do what I do is all the motivation I need.

That’s correct!

You’re welcome, best of luck Carla — we’re here (or in our Facebook group) to help!

Hey Jay Bee, on Hostgator you don’t have to start with the 36-month package. You could always go on a baby plan and do it monthly it might cost a little bit more in the long run (but at least instead of trying to come up with a few hundred dollars starting out you only need roughly $20 a month until you start making money). It would be a better option than WordPress.com as Ben says himself (it has very limited features). I know this could help you start out with a domain and hosting as I believe that you can get a free domain with your first hosting package. I really hope this helps you get a good start on your way to having a great blog.

Nice guide Ben, very detailed on how to get set up.

You make a good point at the very end about writing style. This is something that I need to get used to.This is especially true for mobile device views. More than a couple of sentences together and the block of text fills the whole screen.