Excavators

Arvo gents
I was wondering what experience people have with the use or misuse of Excavators. I currently am going through quotes for the extensions to my house and it is apparent that the quotes for the excavations will cost no less then 5k. I am thinking of buying a 1.5-2t machine to do the job. The reason that I would like my own machine is because of the amount of retaining walls, garden beds, and general landscaping that I have planned to do after the extensions are done. I would easily rack up another 5k doing that stuff.
I have been told that the smaller the excavator the longer it will take me, but thats not that much of a concern seeing as a builder that is available in my area is still 6 months off. I have been offered a 5t machine for dry hire for 250, which is really cheap for the area. I live in a sort of valley so the ground is not overly clayey nor is it large rocks.

I don't have a property, so I would resell it after everything is done.
Worth the hassle?
Is 1.5-2t just too small?
cheers


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