**What if I start with SaaS and want to switch to custom later?**?

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This is common and manageable. Plan for a 3-6 month transition period. Export your data early. Identify the core workflows you need to replicate first. Most migrations start with the most expensive SaaS tool and expand from there.  **How do I calculate the true cost of my current SaaS stack?** Add up subscription costs, integration/middleware costs, the labor cost of workarounds, and the opportunity cost of features you cannot build. Most companies underestimate their true SaaS cost, often by half or more once integration and workaround labor are counted.  **Is it better to hire in-house or use a development agency?** For a one-time build, an agency is usually more cost-effective. For ongoing development (multiple features per quarter), consider a hybrid: agency for major builds, in-house for maintenance. Our [agency vs freelancer vs in-house comparison](/blogs/agency-vs-freelancer-vs-inhouse) covers when each model fits. A [nearshore team in Mexico](/nearshore-ai-development) can serve as your ongoing development partner at lower cost than US hires.