Retão
Description
Retão is a mobile-first borrowing and lending application built with Expo React Native. It allows users across Latin America to lend or borrow non-monetary items such as tools, camping gear, gardening equipment, and more. With an intuitive onboarding-style listing flow, localized discovery, and built-in messaging, Retão fosters community sharing and promotes resourceful living. Node.js Backend and Postgres hosted on Railway.
Tech
Expo React Native
Node.js + Express backend
PostgreSQL
Railway
JWT + SecureStore for auth
Custom REST API
WebSockets for real-time messaging
Expo In-App Purchases (IAP) SDK
Google Places API (location)
React Query (data fetching & caching)
Listing Flow
Onboarding-style item listing with smooth step-by-step UI.
Select from pre-defined categories like Tools, Camping, Gardening, Furniture, etc.
Upload item images with custom preview and edit capabilities.
Choose availability (Available Now or Custom Schedule) and set location manually or via auto-detect.
Review screen to confirm details before publishing.

Browse & Discovery
Browse items by category or location.
Filter items by subscription tier or city.
Clean mobile-first cards with thumbnail, title, location, and availability.
Map or list views for enhanced discoverability.

Messaging & Borrowing
Built-in messaging to chat with item owners before borrowing.
Conversation view with typing indicators and read receipts.
Timeline of borrowed items with borrow and return dates.
Status indicators for 'Listed', 'Borrowed', and 'Rented' items.

User Profile & Onboarding
Onboarding for new users with avatar, bio, handle, and location setup.
User profile shows listed and borrowed items.
Supports anonymous browsing for unregistered users.

Subscriptions & Plans
Free, Pro, and Unlimited subscription tiers.
Pro and Unlimited users can list more items and access premium features.
In-app purchases with receipt validation and restore purchases flow.
