One question, answered in full.

Each guide takes one question founders ask before they build, and answers it with what we have learned building marketplaces — and running one.

• How long does it take to build a marketplace?

  Scope takes about a week. A first working version is typically 10–14 weeks after scope. The first version of FindWorker, our own home-services marketplace, was built in 16 weeks. Launching one side first and cutting to the smallest thing that works are the reliable ways to shorten a build. Payments, payouts and existing code in poor shape are the usual reasons it runs longer.

  Updated 14 September 2026

• How much does a marketplace app cost?

  It depends on four decisions: whether you build one side or two, who holds the money, whether you run your own riders and staff or use a third party, and what already exists. We do not publish a price. We scope your build in a fixed-fee phase of about a week, then price each phase before it starts. Third-party fees such as gateways, app stores, maps and SMS sit outside the build price.

  Updated 14 September 2026

• Should you launch one side of your marketplace first?

  Usually yes. In most service marketplaces, launch supply first: sign up, check and set up providers before customers can book, so the first customer finds someone to choose. Launching one side is not building one app and ignoring the other. The admin console, payments and the rules both sides share still have to work. Start with the side the other side comes for, and open the second side before the first gives up waiting.

  Updated 14 September 2026

• Marketplace payments and payouts: who holds the money?

  Decide this before anything else is scoped. Either the platform collects the money through a payment gateway and pays providers out, or the customer pays the provider directly. Holding the money gives you control over refunds, disputes and commission, but adds build work and compliance scope, and a wallet adds the most. Paying providers directly is the simplest build and the hardest to earn from. Choose by how you plan to make money.

  Updated 14 September 2026

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