Hi

Even though I am located in Australia, I was faced with the same problem when I first started my business.
After a lot of research I discovered a few important things to consider:

1 - If you can do any of the creation or maintenance on your website, do it - this will save you alot of money in the long run. Many websites can now be maintained by the user themselves. I typed everything that is on my website, and add or change pages at my own discretion - all from using a basic word processing program.
2 - Many businesses I contacted had fees that were alot more expensive than the fees of a VA.
3 - Be careful that businesses don't try to sign you up for the whole package, make sure you only get what you need. If they can't give it to you, don't use them
4 - Don't be afraid to have a list of questions ready for any potential business or VA you are contacting. Many of them can take care of everything you need or refer you to other sources, and also manipulate the "package" to suit your needs exactly, so you are not paying for something you don't need.
5 - Remember at the end of the day, that the website and all other aspects that will be created, are there to represent you and your business. If you are not happy with the process one business provides, there are always other businesses and VA's out there that will give you exactly what you need and want.
It took me along time to research everything, many emails back and forth with questions and elaboration requests, but in the end, I am 100% sure I picked the correct service for my business requirements.
Good luck and I hope this has helped you a bit.
Regards
Brigette