Generally, free versions are limited in design and flexibility so purchasing a template is often the better choice. But before you obtain one for the fan page, ensure you look at these template buying tips.

Try to find Uncluttered, Clean-looking Templates

Facebook, on its own, includes a lot going on already. This explains why your website keeps its understated white and blue design and navigation options in order to avoid overwhelming its users. In the same way, you will need to find a Facebook fan page template that looks great without having to be overly busy. Your personal personal style preferences and the sort of page you're developing are important considerations as well, but it's better overall to under-design in the beginning as you can always add more bells and whistles later.

Make Sure the Template Conforms to Facebook's Layout

You'll need a template that perfectly fits within Facebook's limit of 520px in width to avoid unsightly scrollbars from appearing on your own page. Scrollbars are outdated page elements and are usually avoided since they make surfing your page harder than it needs to be.

Check for Customization Options

While many templates look good independently, most would still require some form of customization to better showcase your fan page and content. For this reason it's important to locate templates that are editable and customizable to fit better along with your needs. Note that lots of providers readily claim this, but a few place limits on their templates to allow them to offer their fee-based custom services as well.

Consider the Template's Software Requirements

Since you're most probably going to customize your Facebook fan page template, it's essential to check on the template's files when you have the mandatory software to edit them. Most templates are either HTML or PSD files, which require Dreamweaver or Microsoft Frontpage and Adobe Photoshop, respectively. If there isn't the softwares mentioned, you can download free limited trials on the respective websites.

Check if they are iFrame Compatible

Custom Facebook pages are now actually running on iFrames so you need to ensure that the template you bought is appropriate for the framework. Many providers are actually offering iFrame templates specifically for this function, and these ought to be the first ones to look at.

Important Considerations When Using Templates

One more thing to keep in mind is that uploading your iFrame Facebook fan page template requires a separate iFrame app specifically for the page. This implies creating the iFrame app, loading it to your page and streaming your customized template and its contents from a web server into your page. If you already possess some HTML know-how and server infrastructure because of this, you are able to readily proceed with the app creation. Small businesses and independent professionals without these resources, however, could need to hire a design firm and/or sign up with a web hosting provider to implement these changes.

Don't Forget To Produce a Reveal Tab

Make sure your fan page templates have what's called a "Reveal Tab" this is a page you create where an individual must click the "Like" button in order to "reveal" something just like a gift, a discount, a video etc... Main point here can it be boosts conversions and your Likes through the roof!