THIS is exactly why I thought it would cost way too much, but I figured I'd at least ask. I mean he had a point , and you should always at least look at other information. I just wanted to ensure it wasn't A VIABLE OPTION.
First things first. It is a viable option.
But as so often there is no right or wrong solution to this problem. It all depends on the scale of a given project. Contracting smth out is more often than not easier, but even this depends on your skills in negotiation and finding a valid contractor.
It can be faster and more reliable. Contracting a professional studio will definitely get more consistent results than contracting an "Arts student" over at Deviantart.
And pricing is also a question that heavily depends on the scale and the expected revenue.
There is a reason why indie solo developers expect a net negative for a given project in its early few years. Being small scale indie means you are planning for a marathon, not a sprint. For every "Undertale" there are thousands of shattered dreams, hopes, expectations and abandoned or half-assed projects.