I'm Jan from Ratzeburg — I build websites that work. For tradespeople, SMBs, and agencies.
Since 2013, I've been delivering web projects for small and medium-sized businesses. Frontend is my focus, accessibility is my standard. I use AI tools productively: MCP servers for browser automation, GSC integration for SEO analysis, Invoke AI (local) and Flux by Blackforest Labs for image generation. Content optimization runs through Claude and custom assistants — not ChatGPT wrappers, but my own solutions. And I give it to you straight: what's possible, what's not, and what it costs. You always know where you stand.
My approach: Design and code from one source — plus automation where it saves time, not where it sounds cool. After nine years as a UI/UX designer, I translate design into code — without you having to explain what "visual breathing room" means. That saves time, feedback loops, and misunderstandings.
Let's tackle your project
Send me 3 sentences about what you have in mind. Within 24 hours, you'll get my assessment: what's feasible, what it costs, how long it takes.
Your business doesn't fit these categories? No problem, let's talk or check out my portfolio!
For more than 2 years, we have been working with Jan as a frontend developer at our design agency and have successfully implemented various projects together. We can always rely on his advice and initiative, and we are happy to have such a reliable sparring partner by our side.
CEO · Design Manufaktur
My Background
After studying design at Kunstschule Wandsbek, I went freelance in 2007. For nine years, I was an external UI/UX designer for comdirect bank AG: banking app redesign, photoTAN app, trading frontend, account switching service. I built HTML prototypes with Axure — which sparked my desire to build "real" websites too.
Today, I combine design understanding with technical skills. Clean specs in, working code out — less ping-pong between design and dev.
Mr. Raap has created an attractive and intuitive web experience for our readers using cutting-edge technologies. We value his fast, reliable work and excellent technical expertise.
Founder · Schlagerblume
How I Work
I don't see you as a client, but as a partner. You know your business, I know mine. Together, we figure out what your website needs.
That also means: I don't just nod along with everything. If an idea is technically nonsense or will scare off your users, I'll say so. Not because I'm a know-it-all, but because I want your project to succeed.
Remote is standard — no matter where you are. Saves us both time and money. Video calls when needed, otherwise email and phone. Has worked great for years.
My Tools:
- WordPress with Advanced Custom Fields for custom solutions
- Vue.js 3 and Nuxt for modern web apps
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript for performance-optimized pages
- Claude, custom assistants, and my own MCP servers for automation
Jan Raap has supported us from the beginning in the conception and implementation of our requirements regarding our web presence. We wanted a WordPress implementation to be able to optimally use it with our own plugins, and we trust his expertise when it comes to SEO optimization and usability.
CEO · W1-Media GmbH
What Matters to Me:
Accessibility is baked in from the start. Contrasts that work. Fonts that are readable. Navigation that works with a keyboard. Content as audio. Texts in plain language — with AI support.
Sustainability means acting responsibly, both ecologically and economically: resource-efficient, performant websites with thoughtful UX — and long-term partnerships with companies that have internalized sustainability. Long-term, I want to build a company with employee ownership. Digital services for mid-sized businesses, fair and transparent.
Beyond work and my young son, I'm constantly learning. AI tools, new WordPress features, modern frameworks — the industry moves fast and I keep up.
Got a project in mind?
Tell me what you're planning. I'll be honest about whether I'm the right fit.
Feel free to check out my portfolio or read what clients say. Or reach out directly — I'll tell you within 24 hours what's feasible and what it costs. No sales pitch, just a normal conversation.
You can also find me on LinkedIn — in case you want to stalk a bit before reaching out. Totally fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Depends on scope — a one-pager starts at 700€, a professional website at 5,500€. Easiest way: Build your package in the configurator. Then you'll see right away what your requirements cost.
- 4-6 weeks for simple sites, 2-3 months for more complex ones. The timeline also depends on how quickly you deliver text, images, and feedback. I'm usually not the bottleneck.
- WordPress if you regularly update content and want a familiar system. Nuxt if performance and modern web app features are the priority. We'll figure out what fits in the initial conversation — I won't sell you the more complicated solution.
- No. I build solid accessibility foundations. For legally compliant BFSG (Accessibility Improvement Act) audits, I recommend specialized testing agencies.
- Technical SEO is standard — clean structure, fast load times, correct meta data. For content SEO and ongoing optimization, there are separate packages. Not everyone needs everything.
- Design education plus technical implementation since 2007. That saves feedback loops. Plus: straight talk instead of agency speak.
- Yes, that's important to me. You get an understandable backend plus training. Dependence on me isn't my business model. For those who still don't have time: content maintenance is available as a service.
- Yes, regularly. White-label or extended workbench — I work invisibly under your name. Clean, documented code. More for agencies.
- Small things often included, bigger stuff by effort. Or you book a maintenance contract — then small changes are covered.
- 50% deposit at project start, 50% after approval. For larger projects, milestone payments too. For tradespeople, I usually find a flexible solution.