Solo Developer vs. The Alternatives

Here's how working with a senior solo developer stacks up against agencies and freelancer marketplaces.

Avg. Cost Timeline Communication Layers Code Ownership Agency Freelancer Platform 137Foundry

Lower is better for cost, timeline, and communication layers. Higher is better for code ownership.

Key Metrics
1
Point of contact from start to finish
100%
Code ownership transferred to you at launch
30 Days
Post-launch support included with every project

What's Included in Every Project

No hidden fees, no surprise add-ons. These deliverables come standard with every build.

  • Responsive design across all screen sizes
  • Cross-browser and cross-device testing
  • Performance optimization and Core Web Vitals
  • SEO fundamentals (meta tags, schema, sitemap)
  • Production deployment and hosting setup
  • Technical documentation and handoff
  • 30 days of post-launch support
  • Full source code ownership

Where Your Project Time Goes

  • Development (45%)
  • Design & Planning (25%)
  • Testing & QA (20%)
  • Deployment & Docs (10%)

Tech Stack

I pick the right tool for the job, not the trendiest one. Here's what I work with most.

Frontend React · Next.js · Vue · Tailwind Backend Node.js · PHP · Python · Express Mobile React Native · Capacitor · Expo AI / ML OpenAI · Claude · LangChain · VAPI Data PostgreSQL · MongoDB · MySQL · Redis DevOps AWS · Docker · CI/CD · Vercel

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common things people ask before we start working together.

How much does a project cost?

It depends on scope and complexity. A basic marketing website starts around $2,500. A full-featured web application or mobile app ranges from $5,000 to $25,000+. I provide a detailed fixed-price quote after our discovery call so there are no surprises. You'll know exactly what you're paying for before any work begins.

How long does a typical project take?

Most projects take 2 to 8 weeks depending on complexity. A landing page or simple website can be done in 1–2 weeks. A custom web application or mobile app typically takes 4–8 weeks. I'll give you a realistic timeline during our discovery call and keep you updated throughout.

What's your development process?

It starts with a free discovery call to understand your needs. From there, I put together a scope document with deliverables, timeline, and cost. Once approved, I work in short cycles with regular check-ins so you see progress throughout. No long silences. No big reveals at the end.

Do I own the code when it's done?

Yes. 100%. Once the final payment is made, you own the entire codebase, all assets, and all documentation. No licensing fees, no lock-in, no strings attached. It's your software and you can host it wherever you want, hire someone else to maintain it, or do whatever you need with it.

What if I need changes after launch?

Every project includes 30 days of post-launch support for bug fixes and minor adjustments at no extra charge. After that, I offer ongoing maintenance retainers or you can reach out for one-off updates. Since you own the code, you're also free to bring in another developer if you prefer.

How do we communicate during the project?

I'm flexible. Most clients prefer email or Slack for day-to-day updates, with video calls for bigger milestones or design reviews. You'll always have direct access to me — no account managers or support tickets. I aim to respond within a few hours during business hours.

Can you work with my existing systems?

Absolutely. I regularly integrate with existing databases, APIs, CRMs, payment processors, and third-party services. If you have an existing codebase that needs updating or extending, I can work with that too. We'll go over your current setup during the discovery call.

How do I get started?

Book a free discovery call. We'll spend 20–30 minutes talking about your project, your goals, and your timeline. If it's a good fit, I'll follow up with a proposal. No commitment, no pressure. Just a real conversation about what you need.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Book a free discovery call and I will help you figure out exactly what you need. No pitch, no pressure. Just a straightforward conversation.

Book a Discovery Call