My BF is a licensed plumber and knows how "company" plumbers ramp the price up if people look like they can afford it because they work on commission. He is a "new custruction" type plumber and no one is building new houses these days so he has been laid off for two years. Now he takes any side work he can get and knows that he can beat any price a "company" plumber gives out. When he goes to quote a job he gives a much cheaper rate if the customer gets the water heater and supplies. He never rips anyone off, exactly the opposite if you are on a fixed income. In fact, he quotes a price then tells people to call a plumbing company for a quote and then let him know because he knows what they will charge.
Often if someone says they only have a certain amount to spend, he will lower his price. You would not believe the number of people who NEVER pay him and avoid his calls after he has done the work. Find an out of work LICENSED plumber, ask any friends in the construction trades for a phone number, and you might get a better deal.
Wish we were closer so he could help you out! Good luck!