How do I choose a reliable web design company in India for my small business website?

I run a small business, and I am planning to get a professional website built, but I am confused about how to pick the right web design company in India. There are hundreds of agencies and freelancers, and the pricing varies a lot, from a few thousand rupees to over a lakh, so I am not sure what actually justifies the cost.

A few things I have already looked into:

• Checked some agency portfolios, but most look similar, and I cannot tell the quality apart
• Compared a few quotes, but the scope (pages, revisions, SEO, mobile optimisation) is never clearly defined
• Read some reviews, though I am not sure how many are genuine

What I want to understand from people who have actually hired one:

1. What should I check in a web design company before signing, beyond the portfolio?
2. Should I expect mobile-first and fast-loading design as standard in 2026, or is that an extra cost?
3. Is it better to go with a local agency, or does location not matter for web work in India?
4. What are the red flags that signal I should walk away?

Any advice from business owners or developers who have been through this would help. I want a site that actually brings enquiries, not just looks good.