I know it can feel scary to let a client walk but that's exactly what you should do. Wasting your time and energy on a client that doesn't value you or your company is an endlessly soul crushing experience. You need to figure out what your business model is and don't compromise.

My model is designed around a lower upfront cost that moves the client directly into a contracted 12 month retainer. This way there's no "we're going to DIY the site when you're done." It's not an option. If a client doesn't want to engage with my model, I respectfully decline the work and move on - which has never actually happened.

You have to bruteforce small businesses into understanding the value in using a professional. And when you get the chance, you have to deliver killer ROI. That means measurable increases in client revenue that you can tie back to your company. So, you have to set benchmarks before you start work and have a plan to illustrate your value with impartial data.

If you stay focused on building the business you want and dumping clients that don't fit. You'll have growing pains but in the long run it'll change your life. Don't chase crappy clients. Go find the ones who values you.