This is precisely the problem I have with how one is supposed to approach looking for product-market fit in a startup: contact customers and ask "would you pay

This is precisely the problem I have with how one is supposed to approach looking for product-market fit in a startup: contact customers and ask "would you pay for this? how much? if not, what would make it so you'd pay for it?" I don't feel like that's a good way to find things for customers to buy, but it's the advice from the VCs.