FAQ: Pricing, Payments and Timelines

Answers about working with Spark App Studio: fixed-price quotes, the deposit, milestone payments, timelines, who owns the code, and ongoing support.

How much does it cost to build a custom app?

Every project is fixed-price, based on its scope. As a guide, light projects (one main feature, simple integrations) typically run $950–$1,500; moderate projects (several features, sign-in, basic integrations) $2,000–$4,500; substantial projects (five or more features, multiple integrations, payments) $5,000–$8,000+; and large or enterprise-scale systems $10,000+. Take our quick quiz for an instant estimate. We confirm the scope and fixed price before work begins. A 50% deposit, paid by card, starts development. The remaining 50% is paid milestone by milestone, only after you review and approve each delivery.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards through our secure Stripe payment integration. Payments are structured as follows: a 50% deposit is required upfront to begin development, and the remaining 50% is paid milestone by milestone, only after you review and approve each delivery. This milestone-based payment approach ensures you only pay for work that meets your expectations. All transactions are secure and encrypted.

Are there any hidden fees?

No hidden fees, ever. Our quotes include all development costs. The only additional cost is our monthly maintenance plans (optional, starting at $99/month), which cover bug fixes, security patches, and ongoing support after your app launches.

How long does it take to build an app?

It depends on scope. As a guide, light projects (one main feature, simple integrations) take about 1-2 weeks; moderate projects (several features, sign-in, basic integrations) 2-4 weeks; substantial projects (five or more features, multiple integrations, payments) 4-8 weeks; and large or enterprise-scale systems 2-3 months. Our AI-enabled development process lets us build faster without compromising quality. Your estimate includes a timeline, and we confirm it with the scope before work begins.

How does the development process work?

Our process is simple: 1) Submit an inquiry or complete our App Dream Builder, 2) Get matched with an expert developer, 3) Receive a detailed quote, 4) Pay the 50% deposit to start development, 5) Your developer builds your app in milestones, 6) Review and approve each milestone, 7) Pay for milestones as they are completed and approved. Throughout the process, you'll have direct communication with your developer through your personal dashboard.

How do you make sure my app works and is secure?

Every project follows the same standard process. Each change to your app is automatically tested, built and scanned for security problems before it reaches you, and a change that fails a check waits until it's fixed. Every milestone you review comes with a report showing what was checked and the results, and the report is kept with your app's code, so the record is yours.

What is the App Dream Builder?

The App Dream Builder is our AI-powered tool that helps you envision your perfect app. It asks about your app's purpose, target audience, key features, and technical needs. Using OpenAI GPT-4, it generates a detailed app description with technical recommendations, timeline estimates, and cost projections. It's a great starting point if you're not sure exactly what you need.

What technologies do you use to build apps?

We use modern, industry-standard technologies including React, TypeScript, Node.js, PostgreSQL, and cloud hosting platforms like Railway. Our developers are AI-enabled, using cutting-edge AI development tools like Cursor to build faster and more efficiently. The specific tech stack for your project will be recommended based on your needs.

Will I own the code and intellectual property?

Yes! Upon final payment, you receive full ownership of your app's source code and all intellectual property rights. We provide you with the complete codebase, and you're free to modify, distribute, or sell your app as you wish. This is detailed in our Terms of Service.

Can you build mobile apps or just web apps?

We specialize in web applications, which can be accessed from any device through a browser. For mobile-specific needs, we can build responsive web apps that work beautifully on phones and tablets, or progressive web apps (PWAs) that can be installed like native apps. Native iOS/Android apps can be discussed for Business tier projects.

What happens after my app is built?

After delivery, you receive the complete source code and documentation. We offer optional monthly maintenance plans starting at $99/month that include bug fixes, security patches, support time, and feature updates. You can also request enhancements through your dashboard at any time for additional development work.

Do you provide hosting for my app?

During development and initial launch, we host your app on our development environment. For production, we can set up hosting on platforms like Railway, Vercel, or AWS as part of your project. Hosting costs are separate and depend on your app's needs and traffic. We'll provide recommendations and can handle the setup for you.

Can I request changes or new features after launch?

Absolutely! You can request enhancements anytime through your client dashboard. Small changes and bug fixes are included in our maintenance plans. Larger features are quoted separately. We're here to help your app grow with your business.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy! Either complete our App Dream Builder (for AI-powered guidance) or submit a project inquiry directly. We'll match you with an expert developer who will provide a detailed quote. Once you approve and pay the deposit, development begins immediately.

Do I need technical knowledge to work with you?

Not at all! We work with entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators with zero technical background. We translate your ideas into working apps without the jargon. Our platform is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise.

Can I see examples of apps you've built?

Yes! Visit our Portfolio page to see real examples of custom applications we've developed for businesses and entrepreneurs. Each project showcases different features, industries, and complexity levels.

How do I join as a developer?

If you're a developer interested in joining our network, visit our Developer Portal or Developer Registration page. We're looking for AI-enabled professionals who love building apps. You'll have access to a steady stream of client projects with transparent pricing and the freedom to work on meaningful applications. We handle client acquisition and project management – you focus on building.