Website builder

I am looking to start a website, not for for a typical business or service, but informational purposes only. Providing links and photos to other various websites of my interest. My question is how profitable is an “informational” website? How much money on average can be gained through various types of advertising? Is it measured in hits, clicks or what?

What are the top few places to register a domain name? I’m looking for statistics on traffic, website builders (that don’t look too generic), email, etc.?

Also, what are the worst places to purchase domain names?

Thanks!