I really like the ease of Wordpress and the flexability. So much of it’s FREE and there are endless plugins but the problem that I always run into is all the theme’s look like a "blog" and not really look like normal "sites".
For the "look" of the site, it all depends on the template you pick and the plugins. Here are a couple sites that I have bookmarked for free templates. You can also search Google for others also.
http://www.wpthemesfree.com/index.php?page=1
http://www.themelab.com/
http://wpthemes.info/themes/
In wordpress backend, you can edit the code for the template via Design/Theme Editor then select the file you wish to edit on the right. Be sure to click Save when you are done. It’s always best to copy the code first (before you change it), because you know it works and can paste the good code back in if needed. If you are not use to changing code, it’s pretty easy to find a programmer around (Domain Forums, GetAFreelancer.com, eLance.com) to adjust the code as you wish. Just let them know what you want changed and offer what you are willing to pay. $20 can normally get you what you want changed. It will cost you a couple bucks, but you will get what you want and you won’t have to spend hours trying to figure out some funky code.
There are also many Paid Themes that look more like a "site" other then a blog, but there are plenty of blog themes that look like "sites" for free as well.
I think Wordpress is great for people that are looking for a very cost effective way to develop. If you are ready, I offer up a page here on the blog to get your started. http://www.dotweekly.com/install-wp-blog/ . You might be amazed how easy it is and the potential is unlimited. Several great sites in the domaining community are Wordpress blogs and you might not even know it. www.DomainNameWire.com is one www.DomainNameNews.com is another and www.DotSauce.com to mention a few. DotWeekly.com is another. Many themes can be created for a custom feel for around $50-$150 depending on what you all want. WebRefill has several cool designs and they did the design for DotWeekly. They can also create a custom template for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Happy blogging/site building 
it’s the near future domain parking.
