While opting for self publishing option, one should be careful regarding the cost of the project. Be very clear about your budget. Do a little homework, research from various sources like internet, reading brochures, talking to people. Then chalk out a realistic budget. Take care that you are not swayed away by fancy deals.

An established self publishing company is sure to give you services worth your money. Check that there are no hidden costs. Take some time to carefully read the agreement, ask questions where ever required. Giving you a brief idea of places where there can be hidden costs; you should have a vigil eye in self publishing-

    * Ghostwriting services- you pay to get the drafts written. Talk clearly about the costs involved in rewriting and alterations requested to be made in the draft. They might just hide this part which might turn out to be quite a fortune.
    * Cover design – allow creativity but be clear of what you want and your budget allocation for this. Because the creative designer might lure you to spend more that might hardly make much of a difference in the look. If this is your maiden book, then chances are that you get carried away by fancy ideas of cover, thus wasting your money in the end.
    * Printing costs – be very sure of how many copies you can sell. Based on that wisely decide the number of copies required. Otherwise it might turn out to be a great loss.
    * Marketing – do not over spend here. Try low cost strategies with more impact. And pin down on your target audience.