In our modern world of economic exploitation, I assure you it does not. Cheaper can mean fewer profiteering middle men, less overhead or whatever.

However, if you have no mechanical experience, this is not a good first job. You probably don't want a feeler gauge in one hand while you're trying to remember which way to turn the screw head. Is it possible? Definitely. There's no crazy-expensive or hard to find tools involved. A metric socket set, metric wrench set, screwdriver set (preferably JIS like Vessel though I don't think it's relevant for this job), bent-end feeler gauges, a dial indicator with magnetic base to check yourself (which a mechanic would skip), a digital torque adapter to avoid over- or under-tightening bolts. Replacement seals associated with pulling the intake manifold and valve cover.
I expect a beginner would be at it for at least an hour, once they've gotten to the valve cover. Loosen the lock nut, loosen the tappet, insert the proper feeler gauge, turn the tappet down until the drag is right, spin down the lock nut, hold the tappet in position while tightening the lock nut, check the gauge feel again. Feels right? Good, now do it again 15 times.