Implement app idea or sell it?

Hello,

I have an app idea that several people really like. Of course, I know that developing an app takes time and money, but finding investors wouldn't be a problem. I already know a few and could raise the necessary sum. I think the app has a lot of potential and could become very big. Eventually, I want it to be on par with Tinder and the like. Now I'm wondering whether I should start the project and possibly sell the app to a large company later, or whether I should sell my idea directly to a large company without building the app myself.

The problem is that you can't patent an app idea. It's different than with physical inventions. The most I could do is draw up an NDA that the company isn't allowed to share or use my idea. But when in doubt, they have such good lawyers that they'll simply claim they had the idea before me or something. Imagine a little "nobody" taking Facebook to court…

Pro build yourself:
– The idea cannot be stolen because I was the first to bring it to market
– It brings in more money in the long run, especially if you sell it later
– It is my own project, which I can be proud of for a long time

Build your own Kontra:
– It takes a few months and costs money (although I already know investors)
– It is not guaranteed that the idea will work (although it is likely)
– Errors and unforeseen things may occur

Selling Pro to a company:
– I have the money immediately and don't have to worry anymore
– I save time and money

Contra selling to a company:
– They might steal my idea forever and I won't get any money
– I then have nothing more to do with the app and cannot determine anything
– I probably have to sell the idea far below its value, since there is no prototype / working app yet

So that's my thoughts… What would you do?

Does anyone have any experience with selling apps?

Thanks! 🙂