Your Complete Guide to
Buying Side Projects
Learn everything you need to know about finding, evaluating, and purchasing developer side projects on Sidecrate. Make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
Getting Started as a Buyer
Follow these essential steps to successfully purchase and launch your first side project.
1. Create Your Account
Sign up for a free Sidecrate account to explore projects and connect with creators.
- Verified email required
- AI chat access
- Profile customization
2. Browse & Explore
Explore projects using filters and AI chat to understand code without diving manually.
- Filter by technology stack
- AI-powered exploration
- View project demos
3. Contact Creators
Use in-platform messaging to ask questions and connect with project creators.
- Real-time messaging
- File sharing support
- Direct creator communication
4. Use AI to Understand
Chat with AI to explore code structure, features, and implementation details instantly.
- Ask AI about features
- Understand architecture
- Get implementation details
How to Evaluate Projects
Learn what to look for when evaluating side projects to ensure you make the right purchase decision.
Code Quality Checklist
Documentation Quality
Look for comprehensive README files, setup instructions, and code comments.
Code Organization
Check for clean file structure, proper separation of concerns, and modular design.
Testing Coverage
Verify presence of unit tests, integration tests, and notes on test execution.
Dependencies
Review dependency list and ensure they are up-to-date and secure.
Business Value Assessment
Market Potential
Evaluate the target market size and potential for growth and monetization.
Feature Completeness
Assess how complete the feature set is and what additional work is required.
Scalability
Consider the project's ability to handle user and data growth.
Competitive Analysis
Research competitors and identify the project's unique position.
Secure Purchase Process
Our step-by-step purchase process ensures safe and secure transactions for both buyers and sellers.
Agreement
Negotiate terms, pricing, and deliverables with the seller through messaging.
Escrow Payment
Your payment is held securely in escrow until transfer is complete.
Project Transfer
Receive complete source code, documentation, assets, and related materials.
Completion
Confirm receipt and satisfaction; payment releases to the seller automatically.
Tips & Best Practices
Expert tips to help you make successful purchases and avoid common mistakes.
Do Your Research
Research the market, competitors, and technical requirements before purchasing.
Communicate Clearly
Ask detailed questions about scope, limitations, and what's included.
Review Everything
Inspect code, documentation, and demos before finalizing.
Plan for Development Time
Budget time for customization, deployment, and maintenance.
Verify Ownership
Confirm the seller has full rights and can legally transfer the project.
Post-Purchase Support
Agree on post-sale support or onboarding assistance if required.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Project?
Start browsing our curated collection of developer side projects and find the one that's right for your needs.