You can cut half the cost if you choose and open source framework to work with.
Problem is, most designers out there cant really cut it out with real custom made web apps.
Mostly because the era of custom made web apps is gone.
You are more likely to get someone to get an existing framework and rework it for you.
Example: rupu.co.ke is built on Magento. An open source project, available to everyone... but who would think that?
Do or Do Not, there is no Try!