Consider the company’s expertise, portfolio, client reviews, and industry experience. Ensure they have the technical skills relevant to your project (e.g., web, mobile, enterprise solutions). It’s also important to assess their communication skills, project management methodologies (e.g., Agile), and their ability to meet deadlines and budgets.

The timeline depends on the complexity of the project, the features required, and the size of the development team. Small projects might take a few weeks, while large-scale applications or enterprise systems can take several months or even years. A software development company will provide a project timeline after an initial assessment.

Costs can vary depending on factors such as project complexity, technology stack, and the location of the development team. Some companies charge hourly rates, while others offer fixed-price contracts. It's best to get a detailed estimate after discussing your project’s scope.

Yes, typically, once the software is completed and delivered, you own the rights to it. This should be outlined in the contract, which often includes clauses about intellectual property rights, source code ownership, and licensing.