I'll add in that if you need to haul the dirt, it doubles the work and equipment needed, which means more dollars. You might not be able to do it with just a dozer, but if you can figure it that way it will save you a lot.
I did it myself, thinking the same way that I did not want to spend the money. Bought the equipment used, did it for the same amount, or possibly less than quotes... but I did more than what I would have gotten from hiring. I usually find doing it myself cost the same as the quote. I start off planning on saving money by doing it myself, then I get involved and start having fun and go overboard with ideas and wishes. It costs the same, but I like the end result better because of the details.
