How To Find and Hire an App Developer in 2025

Building an app has become a vital aspect of any company’s growth strategy, and 62% of companies already have an app or are actively building one. 

Finding an app developer for your business can make the difference between disaster and success. Too often, companies run to cheap, inexperienced developers without understanding what goes into app development—only to face costly mistakes later. 

In this article, we’ll cover what to look for when in need of app development services and how to hire one.

Why hire a professional app developer?

Despite the hype that anyone can build an app, the reality is quite different. Yes, DIY “build your own app” services exist, and they’re sometimes sufficient for run-of-the-mill apps that aren’t part of a company’s main growth strategy. However, if you want to create a unique app that’s integral to your company’s expansion, you’ll need a professional developer. 

Many tools allow developers to create apps more rapidly and securely. However, just like a physical power tool, these app development tools are best used by experienced professionals. 

When you try to build an app yourself or hire an amateur, you risk leaving your app open to security holes. Apps must be maintained. They also must be checked occasionally for any new security risks. 

For example, one of the great things about open-source code is that so many developers physically look at the code repeatedly. Automated tools can help when it comes to finding security holes. However, these tools don’t completely replace experienced developers who actively examine and maintain code. 

How to hire an app developer

Hiring an app developer consists of seven main steps: 

1. Assess your app development needs and goals

Many apps and platforms exist, and no single developer can deliver professional services in all categories. 

Before diving into the hiring process, it's crucial to understand your business needs and technical requirements. This includes determining your preferred tech stack — whether you need expertise in Swift for iOS development, Java for Android, or React Native for cross-platform solutions. Consider whether your project requires specialized knowledge in areas like e-commerce or healthcare applications.

The goals for your app play an enormous role in what type of developer to hire. For example, if you intend to give people offline access to your app on their mobile phones, you’ll need a mobile app developer. However, if your primary purpose is simply to provide online access to your website from mobile phones, you might be better off building a website app.

Different technologies exist for different types of apps. It might be overwhelming to understand what technology you’ll need if you’re unfamiliar with development. If that's the case, we recommend finding web programming consultation services from Fiverr to help you. Understanding your app’s needs thoroughly before starting can save you immense costs in the long run. 

Here’s a broad overview of the types of developers that exist when hiring an app developer: 

• Desktop software developer: This kind of software development professional writes software that runs on desktop and laptop computers. This category further breaks down into Windows, MacOS, and Linux developers. These folks can develop plugins, automation and workflows, browser extensions, and more. 

• Mobile app developer: Creates mobile apps. Recent tools have emerged that make it possible to write code for Android and iOS using the same code base. They have strong technical skills in creating native apps and hybrid apps, with expertise in user interface design and the app development process. Many iOS developers specialize in Swift and Objective-C to ensure compatibility with older systems. 

• Web app developer: Works on web application development. A web app is an app that runs in a web browser. They’ll have proven skills in both frontend and backend development, particularly for complex applications that require server-side architecture.

• Embedded app developer: Embedded apps run on limited-power hardware devices and are typically used for highly specialized functions, like wearable tech or POS devices. 

• AI application developer: Builds artificial intelligence systems and machine learning models that can process data, recognize patterns, and make decisions. They are used in everything from chatbots to self-driving cars to medical diagnosis tools.

2. Look for qualified app developers

When searching for the best app developers, consider modern hiring platforms. Many entrepreneurs and startups successfully use Fiverr to build their app development teams.

Online platforms

Fiverr is the best online platform to find an app developer to help you create an app. Three primary ways exist on Fiverr to find the freelancer you need: 

Search and filter 

Fiverr’s extensive search and filter functionality makes it easy to find the right app developer for your project. You can either navigate the platform using the categories in the top menu or search for the service you’re looking for by using Fiverr’s built-in search engine. 

After clicking on a category or searching for a service, you can filter the results. 

You can filter freelancers by the following:

• Category: You can drill down further and choose the type of service you need, such as full app creation, customization, or bug fixes. 

• Service options: Here, you can narrow your search further using filters like platform, app type, development technology, purpose, and expertise.

• Freelancer details: This includes variables like the seller’s native language, nationality, and level (new seller, level 1, level 2, or top-rated).

• Budget: You can search for developers within your budget range.

• Delivery time: Indicate whether you want someone who can deliver within 24 hours (Express), three days, seven days, or based on your needs.

• Pro services: If you’d prefer to work only with Fiverr’s hand-vetted professionals, you can toggle the “Pro services” switch. 

Create a custom request

Another option is to create a detailed project brief, which Fiverr’s AI matches up with relevant freelancers. If you need to do a high-value project, Fiverr assigns a dedicated Fiverr Pro representative to guide the entire project. 

To start, log into Fiverr Pro and click “Post a project brief.” Fiverr’s AI helps you generate a comprehensive brief to match you with freelancers. 

Fiverr’s Neo

Fiverr Neo is Fiverr’s AI assistant that helps you narrow your searches, even if you don’t know anything about app development. You can type in questions to Fiverr Neo, and the assistant will help you figure out the project’s specifications. Then, the assistant will recommend potential freelancers to help you. 

Traditional methods

Traditional methods for finding an app developer include:

1. Standard in-house recruitment: Full-time hiring is a stable but lengthy process requiring significant commitment. This approach can delay initial development, making it less ideal for getting a quick MVP to market.

2. Hiring an agency: While agencies offer professional services, they typically come at premium prices compared to other options. Many choose agencies believing they offer more security, though this is only sometimes true given the quality standards enforced by other platforms.

3. Word-of-mouth recommendations: Finding developers through personal and professional networks like LinkedIn and job boards leverages trusted connections. This traditional approach relies on the experiences and referrals of others in your network.

For additional peace of mind, you can work only with rated Fiverr or pro sellers. 

3. Evaluate the developer’s expertise

Educational certificates aren’t enough when hiring app developers. 

Looking at their real-world experience is vital, particularly in mobile application development and specific programming languages. When evaluating expertise, consider their proficiency in essential frameworks like Flutter for cross-platform development or Kotlin for native Android apps. A competent developer or app development company should master their chosen development process and project management methodologies.

Here are some ways to establish real-world experience and expertise when looking for freelancers on Fiverr: 

• Star ratings: Look for both quantity and quality of ratings. Read the reviews to understand the character of the rating. Although anyone can have an occasional hiccup or poor experience, consistently low reviews are a red flag. 

• Seller levels: Fiverr has a Seller Level system to provide more feedback about the freelancer’s performance on Fiverr itself. Four levels exist: No level, Level 1, Level 2, and Top-Rated Seller. To rise from No Level to Level 2, the seller must maintain a certain degree of positive reviews, deliver a minimum quantity of service, and be on Fiverr for a certain amount of time. Fiverr personally verifies the Top-Rated Seller level before being awarded. 

• Pro sellers: Besides levels, some sellers have been hand-picked by Fiverr as professionals in their fields. These sellers have a proven track record outside of Fiverr in their respective categories, and Fiverr designates them with a Fiverr Pro Seller badge. 

• Portfolios: Fiverr freelancers can share their portfolio of projects to show their experience in their field. 

• Returning customers: When buyers keep returning to a freelancer for additional services, Fiverr places a special badge on that freelancer’s profile to indicate this.

💡Tip: When reviewing potential team members, assess their problem-solving abilities and how they approach user experience and UX design challenges. 

4. Assess the developer’s communication skills

One of the most overlooked skills in app development is communication. It’s impossible to have a successful app development project if the developer can’t understand you.

App developers must do more than comprehend briefs—they must know where an app might go wrong and foresee potential pitfalls, which they must communicate to you. 

Non-developers often have an idea for an app that seems simple but is not. An app developer should be able to communicate the complexities in a way you understand so you can make informed decisions.

This point about communication skills is so vital that we’d recommend choosing a developer with better communication skills over one with better development skills, so long as they are on par. Poor communication skills can lead to frustration and double work, ultimately harming the projection and pushing it beyond budget. 

5. Screen candidates

Consider whether your project would benefit more from in-house developers who can work closely with your team or a mobile app development company that can provide comprehensive services. For most businesses, working with freelance app developers can offer flexibility while maintaining high-quality output.

Once you’ve created a shortlist of candidates, start a conversation using Fiverr’s messaging system to discuss your project. Evaluate the developer’s communication skills and their understanding of your needs. 

Beware of freelancers who quickly say, “Yes, I can do this!” without asking any initial questions. It’s rare that an app development project is as straightforward as it initially looks. Prioritize freelancers who take the time to understand the details of your project. 

6. Choose the right engagement model

Fiverr offers different billing models depending on the type of project. No one likes open-ended hourly projects. Unfortunately, capping a project to a budget can leave you with an app that contains bugs and security flaws. It’s important to determine the right model that makes the most sense for both you and the freelancer. 

Part of determining the right model is for the freelancer to fully understand your project’s needs. The more complex the app, the more questions the developer should ask. If you have a complex project and the freelancer quickly jumps into the quoting phase, be prepared for some budget surprises. 

Here are some rules of thumb for choosing the right pricing model for your project: 

Hourly rates

Hourly rates make sense when a project is extremely complex. It’s impossible to determine the exact number of hours a large project will take. However, it is possible to provide a fairly accurate ballpark if the freelancer has enough data. 

Insisting that a freelancer sticks with a fixed price for a massive project may ultimately harm your project. If the freelancer doesn’t have the leeway to do a good job, they can cut corners to stay within budget. Similarly, if a freelancer fails to properly estimate the correct workload because they didn’t ask enough questions, you’ll end up with a surprise bill. 

Fortunately, Fiverr Pro lets you dispute any excessive hours that you were unprepared for, so you’re always protected. 

Ideally, you’d work with a freelancer who takes the time to understand the project fully before quoting you. It’s also a good idea to do one or two smaller projects to get to know that freelancer before agreeing to anything extensive. 

Project-based

Project-based pricing makes sense for straightforward apps or small projects. If the freelancer has created many apps similar to yours, they can usually estimate the hours correctly and quote you accurately for the project. 

Caution: Project-based pricing can be a wolf in sheep’s clothing if the freelancer grossly underestimates the workload for your app. A good rule of thumb is to choose someone who asks plenty of questions upfront—if they don’t, it’s a red flag.

As with hourly rates, starting with one or two smaller projects and building trust first is also a good idea. 

Retainer

Retainers are more suited to app maintenance than to developing a brand-new app. You pay the freelancer a certain amount each week or month, and they dedicate a set number of hours or tasks to your project. 

Fiverr offers a “Subscription” pricing model that can be used for retainers. 

7. Make the offer and onboard

When bringing on new coders or an entire app development team, make sure they're well-versed in agile methodologies and clearly understand your project requirements. Whether you choose in-house team members or remote developers, establish clear communication channels and technical requirements from the start.

Once you’ve settled on the freelancer and are ready to move forward, you can either purchase a gig from that freelancer directly or ask them to send you a custom offer. Readymade gigs are suited for apps that contain standard features. Custom offers are better suited for apps with customized needs. 

Tips for working with an app developer

Here are four tips for working smoothly with an app developer: 

Set realistic timelines

When hiring developers, especially for a cross-platform app, the required level of expertise can vary greatly. App development often demands significantly more effort than most people anticipate.

Outsourcing can be a cost-effective solution for many teams, whether collaborating with partners in India or Europe. However, successfully navigating time zone differences calls for thoughtful planning and coordination. Being realistic about timelines allows your programmer to develop the app thoroughly, avoiding shortcuts that could compromise security.

Have open communication

Numerous unforeseen complexities can arise when developing an app. Often, these complexities aren't the software engineer's fault but rather due to some new update or quirk from the App Store platform they're working on. Maintaining frequent and open communication about the project is the best way for it to succeed.

Verify expertise and references 

Before starting your iOS app or web development project, thoroughly research potential partners. Platforms like Fiverr offer testimonials and vetting services to help you evaluate each candidate's skill set and experience. This due diligence is especially important when seeking app development services remotely.

Be open to suggestions

Technology can be fickle. Your initial app idea may need to evolve as you work with your developer on the app design. New updates or regulatory requirements can mean you’ll need to compromise how your app works. It's important to trust the developer's expertise to determine the best way forward.

Developing an app is a dedicated team effort, which is why choosing the right developer in the first place is so important. 

Hire app developers on Fiverr today

Fiverr is an online marketplace of expert freelancers in all major business categories, including app development. To find app developers on Fiverr, either browse the categories or use Fiverr’s built-in search engine. You can also use Fiverr’s AI to help develop a brief and select the right freelancer for your project. 

To get started, join Fiverr today. 

Hiring an app developer FAQs

1. Can I develop my own app?

Although tools exist to develop your app without coding skills, these apps typically lack enough unique features to become competitive in the market. If you’d like to develop an app with a high chance of succeeding, hiring a competent developer is best. 

2. How much does it cost to hire an app developer?

App development costs vary widely, depending on the app’s specifications. A simple app can cost a few hundred dollars and take a few days to create with a mobile app builder, while highly complex apps can cost well over $100,000 and take over a year to develop. 

3. Can I hire someone to make an app for me?

Yes, you can hire app development experts on Fiverr to develop apps for you across all app categories, including mobile, desktop, and web apps. 

4. How much should I pay for app development?

Various pricing models exist for app development, such as hourly, project-based, or retainer-based. Prices vary depending on the developer’s skill, location, demand, and the project’s complexity. Hourly rates typically vary between $50 and $150, although it’s also possible to find prices outside that range.