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Buying a SaaS or a startup: the checklist before you pay

Buying a live SaaS lets you start with a product, users and sometimes revenue, instead of from scratch. But you need to check what you buy. Here is the checklist.

1. What is sold, in writing

Ask for the exact list of included assets:

• the source code and its repository;
• the domain name and related accounts (hosting, email, social media);
• the user or customer base, if those people agreed to the transfer;
• the brand, logo and content.

2. Verifiable numbers

Do not settle for a screenshot. Ask for read access to the payment tools (Stripe, Paddle…) and analytics, or a live screen share. Look at monthly revenue over 6 to 12 months, churn and the number of truly active users.

3. Code and costs

• which language and framework is it written in, and can you maintain it?
• which third-party services does it pay for every month (hosting, AI APIs, email)?
• does it depend on an API that could change its price or shut down?

4. The transfer

Put the schedule in writing: who transfers what, when, and how long the seller stays available for questions. For large amounts, use an escrow service or a contract drafted by a professional.

5. Where to look

On Kiosq, the SaaS, Startups, Apps and Websites categories gather projects for sale. Sellers must state accurate figures, every listing can be reported, and you can ask the seller questions before buying with the built-in messaging.