Whenever I have my beard grown out, I usually get it trimmed/shaped by a barber, every once in awhile I'll indulge in a head shave. Honestly I've probably only ever once gotten a head shave that I'd consider better than the ones I give myself. It's nice to do once in awhile, but not really worth it to do it regularly.
@J_Scott I can't imagine how much a beard trim and a head shave cost. I'd be surprised if it was $50 or less....