Contractor costs are insane, our recent experience. Gas heater wouldn't start: -- diagnosis: $180 flat fee -- quote for replacing a failed igniter: plus $300

Contractor costs are insane, our recent experience. Gas heater wouldn't start: -- diagnosis: $180 flat fee -- quote for replacing a failed igniter: plus $300, one week waiting for parts -- I found the part on eBay and replaced it myself for $20, delivered in 2 days Trimming an (admittedly large) tree in the backyard: $2,500. One guy in the tree with a chainsaw, 3 guys carrying branches to a wood chipper truck.