Full-Stack Developer – Custom Social Marketplace & Freelance Platform

I am seeking an experienced Full-Stack Developer to build a niche, community-driven platform from the ground up. This project is a hybrid: part social network, part digital product marketplace, and part freelance service hub. I require a robust, custom-coded solution (No WordPress/plugins) focused heavily on transaction security and user community building. Core Technical Requirements • Dual-Marketplace Architecture: • Digital Products: A secure vendor portal allowing users to list digital files (ebooks), set prices, and receive automated, split payouts (e.g., a 90/10 platform fee model). • Freelance/Service Marketplace: A platform for users to advertise skills (e.g., editing, beta reading) featuring a built-in Escrow Payment System to hold funds securely until project milestones are met. • Social & Community Engine: Custom onboarding featuring a personality-based matching algorithm to sort users, power a recommendation engine, and facilitate community connection. • Gamification: A tracking system to award badges and achievements based on user activity and milestones. • Integrated Payments & Security: Implementation of complex payment gateways (e.g., Stripe Connect) to handle multi-party payouts, escrow holds, and dispute resolution logic. High-level security protocols (DRM/anti-piracy) to protect digital assets are mandatory. Aesthetic & Communication • Vibe: Dark, atmospheric, and high-end UI/UX. (Specific branding will be shared under NDA). • Communication: Weekly Zoom progress syncs are required. • Timeline: This is a "slow burn" project; I prioritize security, clean architecture, and flawless payment logic over a rushed launch. Application Process Please provide a portfolio of custom-built web applications, particularly those involving multi-vendor marketplaces or custom payment flows. Candidates who pass the initial screening will be asked to sign an NDA before the full project scope and niche are revealed. In your cover letter, please briefly explain your approach to building a secure escrow payment flow for user-to-user freelance services.